The bill amends RCW 90.66.065 to expand the scope of locations where water rights established as family farm permits may be transferred. Specifically, it allows for transfers to any beneficial use of water within designated urban growth areas and limited areas of more intensive rural development, as well as within cities or towns in counties not planning under chapter 36.70A RCW. The bill maintains existing limitations on transfers for agricultural irrigation purposes and ensures that any surplus water resulting from more efficient practices can be transferred for beneficial use, provided it does not affect the production of historically grown crops.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that before a family farm water permit can be changed to serve municipal or domestic purposes, the receiving public water system must comply with water conservation requirements. The place of use for transferred water rights must remain within the original water resource inventory area or contiguous urban growth areas. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the flexibility of water rights transfers while ensuring that conservation and historical usage are respected.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 90.66.065, 36.70A.360
Substitute Bill: 90.66.065