Relating to the regulation of groundwater with historic use by and conflicts of law for the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District.
Impact
The bill introduces specific rules that the groundwater district must follow before enforcing any orders for groundwater reduction or curtailment. These rules mandate the use of the best available science in decision-making and aim to protect wells with historic usage from excessive restrictions. As a result, groundwater production from historically used wells will be more favorably treated compared to newer permits, reflecting an effort to balance conservation with historical rights of users within the district.
Summary
House Bill 3116 deals with the regulation of groundwater specifically concerning historic use within the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District. The bill serves to clarify conflicts of law, establishing that the provisions within the relevant chapter take precedence over conflicting regulations in the Water Code. This legislative measure aims to manage groundwater resources effectively by emphasizing the importance of historical usage data when issuing reductions or curtailments on groundwater extraction.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 3116 appears to be largely supportive, particularly from stakeholders who prioritize the preservation of historic water rights. Proponents argue that the bill presents a fair approach to managing scarce water resources while respecting the needs of existing users. However, there might be concerns from new permit holders or environmental advocates who fear that the bill could lead to over-extraction by privileging older users at the potential expense of conservation efforts.
Contention
One notable point of contention regarding HB 3116 is the definition and application of 'historic use.' The terms set forth in the bill are critical for enforcing water conservation measures while also ensuring that established users retain access. Debates may arise about the fairness of the provisions, particularly if they lead to unequal treatment of groundwater users based on their historical use. Furthermore, enforcement actions and the scientific basis for determining reductions will be essential areas of discussion as stakeholders assess the implications of the bill on water management practices.
Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.
Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.