The bill H.722 proposes to empower municipalities in Vermont to adopt ordinances that regulate the surface water use of public waters designated as drinking water supplies, with the exception of transboundary lakes or ponds. This new authority is outlined in an amendment to 24 V.S.A. § 2291, which adds a provision allowing towns, cities, or incorporated villages to manage the surface water use of public water sources, provided that the municipality owns all the land adjacent to the water. The bill clarifies that any municipal ordinance established under this provision will take precedence over conflicting rules set by the Secretary of Natural Resources.

Additionally, the bill defines "public water" in accordance with existing law, while explicitly excluding transboundary lakes and ponds from this definition. The terms "public water source" and "public water system" are also aligned with definitions found in other statutes. The act is set to take effect upon passage, thereby allowing municipalities to begin implementing these regulations as soon as the bill is enacted.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-2291