Texas Senate Bill SB41

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

• Filed: 8/18/25

Caption

Relating to the consideration by a groundwater conservation district of modeled available groundwater when issuing permits.

Impact

The implications of SB41 are significant in terms of environmental management and resource conservation. By restricting the total amount of groundwater that can be extracted and transferred, the bill aims to protect water resources critical for ecological health and community sustainability. It places a limit on how much groundwater can be allocated and encourages districts to be mindful of their water management practices. Stakeholders, including local governments and conservation groups, support the bill for its proactive stance on safeguarding water resources, which have faced pressures from population growth and climate variability.

Summary

SB41 is a legislative act aimed at regulating groundwater production within Texas by amending the Water Code. The bill specifically addresses how groundwater conservation districts should consider the modeled available groundwater when issuing permits for the production and transfer of groundwater outside their districts. It stipulates that a district cannot issue a permit if the permitted amount exceeds five percent of the total modeled available groundwater determined by the executive administrator. This regulation seeks to ensure that groundwater resources are managed sustainably and are not over-extracted by individuals or entities looking to transfer large amounts of water out of the area.

Contention

While the bill has gathered support, it could face contention from agricultural businesses and industries that rely heavily on groundwater for their operations. These stakeholders may argue that such restrictions could impede business growth and their capacity to meet operational needs. The balance between resource protection and economic interests will likely be a central theme in the discussions surrounding SB41, as various parties weigh the benefits of sustainable practices against the potential constraints on development and water use.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

• Chapter 36. Groundwater Conservation Districts
  • Section: 1132