This bill amends the Water Code and the Special District Local Laws Code to enhance the regulation of groundwater production within groundwater conservation districts in Texas. A significant provision prohibits districts from issuing permits for the production and transfer of groundwater outside the district after December 1, 2025, if the total amount authorized exceeds five percent of the total modeled available groundwater apportioned to the district. Additionally, if a permit application proposes the transfer of groundwater from a well capable of producing 25,000 gallons or more per day, the district must notify other districts in its management area and cannot issue the permit unless at least two-thirds of those districts approve it.

The bill also modifies the criteria under which a transfer of groundwater is considered outside the district's boundaries. Specifically, it removes previous conditions related to potable water supply transfers by retail public utilities and emergency interconnects, allowing districts more discretion in determining what constitutes an internal transfer. The new regulations aim to ensure sustainable groundwater management and protect the resources within the districts. The provisions of this bill will apply only to permits issued on or after its effective date, which is set for 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 36.1132, Water Code 36.122, Special District Local Laws Code 8863.103 (Special District Local Laws Code 8863, Water Code 36)