The bill amends the Water Code to regulate the production and transfer of groundwater within groundwater conservation districts. A new provision prohibits districts from issuing permits after December 1, 2025, that would allow an applicant to produce and transfer more than five percent of the total modeled available groundwater apportioned to the district. Additionally, if an application proposes the transfer of groundwater from a well capable of producing 25,000 gallons or more per day outside the district's boundaries, 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.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the criteria under which a transfer of groundwater is considered outside the district's boundaries. The previous language specifying conditions for such transfers has been deleted, allowing the district more discretion in determining whether a transfer is considered outside the district. The new regulations aim to ensure sustainable groundwater management and protect the interests of neighboring districts. The provisions of this bill will apply only to permits issued on or after its effective date, which is set for the 91st day following the end of the legislative session.

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