The bill, H.B. No. 290, amends Section 36.1132(a) of the Water Code to clarify the authority of groundwater conservation districts in issuing permits for groundwater production. The new language specifies that a district may not issue permits that would hinder the achievement of an applicable desired future condition as defined in Section 36.108. This is achieved by ensuring that the total volume of groundwater production authorized through permits, when combined with exempt groundwater production, does not exceed the volume of modeled available groundwater determined by the executive administrator.

The bill removes previous language that suggested districts should issue permits to the extent possible while still achieving desired future conditions. This change emphasizes a more stringent approach to groundwater management, aiming to protect water resources by preventing over-extraction. The act is set to take effect on the 91st day after the conclusion of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 36.1132 (Water Code 36)