The bill proposes the establishment of the Groundwater Science, Research, and Innovation Fund, which will be administered by the Texas Water Development Board. This fund is intended to support financial assistance in the form of grants for groundwater conservation districts to enhance groundwater science, research, and innovation within the state. The fund will consist of various sources of revenue, including appropriated money, transfers from the board, investment returns, and donations. The board is tasked with developing criteria for the use of the fund, which will focus on improving local groundwater conditions, developing models for planning, enhancing water conservation, increasing groundwater recharge, and protecting groundwater quality.

Additionally, the bill outlines the evaluation process for grant applications, emphasizing the expected benefits to district management and planning, alignment with the board's objectives, and the district's financial needs. It mandates that at least 35% of the fund's resources be allocated to districts with smaller populations and revenues. Furthermore, the board may require districts to provide matching funds for grants, ensuring a commitment to the funded projects. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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