H.B. No. 2620 amends the Water Code by adding a new subsection (e-3) to Section 16.053, which outlines the criteria for including certain sources of water supply in regional water plans. Specifically, it prohibits regional water planning groups from including sources that require eminent domain and are located in another planning area unless they meet specific conditions. These conditions include demonstrating that all potential new water supply sources within their own area are insufficient, that all feasible water management strategies have been implemented, and submitting a report to the board that assesses the negative effects on residents and includes a mitigation plan for those effects.

The bill aims to ensure that regional water planning groups prioritize local water supply solutions and consider the impacts of sourcing water from outside their areas. It emphasizes the importance of thorough analysis and community impact assessments before resorting to external water sources that may require eminent domain. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 16.053 (Water Code 16)