H.B. No. 4530 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code and the Water Code to enhance the management and dedication of water rights within the Texas Water Trust and the Texas Water Bank. The bill encourages the dedication of surface water rights in the Texas Water Trust for environmental needs, such as maintaining instream flows, water quality, and wildlife habitats. It also allows the Parks and Wildlife Department to manage these rights in a manner consistent with existing regulations and to maximize environmental benefits. Additionally, the bill establishes that the dedication of any surface water rights placed in trust must be reviewed and approved by the commission, with input from the Department of Agriculture, while also introducing a new requirement for the review and approval of groundwater rights. Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the board in operating the water bank, including actions to facilitate water transactions and the establishment of regional water banks. It emphasizes the importance of conservation needs and environmental considerations in managing water rights, including instream flow and water quality. The Texas Water Trust is specifically designated to hold water rights dedicated to these conservation and environmental needs, with provisions for the management of both surface and groundwater rights. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 12.028, Water Code 15.7031 (Parks and Wildlife Code 12, Water Code 15)
House Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 12.028, Water Code 15.7031 (Parks and Wildlife Code 12, Water Code 15)
Engrossed: Parks and Wildlife Code 12.028, Water Code 15.7031 (Parks and Wildlife Code 12, Water Code 15)
Senate Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 12.028, Water Code 15.7031 (Parks and Wildlife Code 12, Water Code 15)
Enrolled: Parks and Wildlife Code 12.028, Water Code 15.703, Water Code 15.7031 (Parks and Wildlife Code 12, Water Code 15)