Oklahoma Senate Bill SB659

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 3/2/23

Caption

Groundwater permits; providing for certain permit; creating permit requirements; requiring report by permit holder. Effective date.

Impact

The bill aims to amend existing statutes concerning groundwater permits and align them with sustainable practices. It empowers the Board to determine permit eligibility based on evidence from surveys and reports on hydrology. This could significantly impact local water management, as it may dictate the extent and nature of water extraction practices across the state, promoting responsible use and conservation of water resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 659 focuses on the regulation and permitting of groundwater use in Oklahoma. It sets forth the conditions under which the Oklahoma Water Resources Board will grant permits for groundwater extraction, emphasizing the need for the proposed use of water to be beneficial. The bill also addresses the maximum annual yield from groundwater basins and provides a framework for five-year allocations, which may allow users to exceed annual limits while adhering to cumulative yield restrictions over the permit period.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB 659 is generally positive among those who prioritize environmental sustainability and efficient water management. Supporters argue that the bill provides a necessary framework for regulating water withdrawals, ensuring that groundwater resources are not depleted. However, there may be concerns from landowners and industries reliant on groundwater regarding the restrictions on usage and the processes for obtaining permits.

Contention

Some contention arises from the bill's stipulations on how permits are allocated and the requirement for annual reporting by permit holders. Opposition may stem from those who perceive the bill as potentially limiting access to water for agricultural or other uses, especially if the permit approval process becomes burdensome. Additionally, discussions may highlight the challenges of balancing economic needs with the imperative of protecting groundwater resources from over-extraction.