The bill amends Section 36.1132(a) of the Water Code to clarify the authority of groundwater conservation districts in issuing permits for groundwater production. Specifically, it states that a district may not issue permits that would hinder the achievement of an applicable desired future condition as defined in Section 36.108. The new language emphasizes that permits should not authorize a volume of groundwater production that, when combined with exempt groundwater production, exceeds the volume of modeled available groundwater determined by the executive administrator.

This change replaces previous language that suggested districts should issue permits to the extent possible without exceeding certain production limits. The bill aims to ensure that groundwater conservation districts manage groundwater resources more effectively, aligning production permits with sustainable practices and desired future conditions. 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)