H.B. No. 1690 amends the Water Code by adding a new subsection (d-1) to Section 36.122, which outlines the requirements for notifying relevant parties when an application for a permit to transfer groundwater out of a groundwater conservation district is filed. The bill mandates that the district must adopt rules ensuring that notice is provided, which must be funded by the applicant. The notice requirements include sending certified mail to adjacent districts and counties that overlie the aquifer from which the groundwater will be sourced, as well as publishing the notice in newspapers of general circulation in the relevant counties.

The new provisions aim to enhance transparency and communication regarding groundwater transfer applications, ensuring that affected parties are informed. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, following its passage in both the House and Senate with significant support.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 36.122 (Water Code 36)
House Committee Report: Water Code 36.122 (Water Code 36)
Engrossed: Water Code 36.122 (Water Code 36)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 36.122 (Water Code 36)
Enrolled: Water Code 36.122 (Water Code 36)