Us Congress House Bill HB4902

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/26/23
• Refer: 7/26/23
• Refer: 8/28/23

Caption

Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, HB4902 would significantly impact state water management laws by introducing a structured program for groundwater conservation. It is designed to support landowners in reducing their reliance on declining groundwater resources, thus aligning agricultural practices with growing concerns regarding water scarcity. The legislation is positioned to protect agricultural uses and community vitality by promoting practices that maintain or enhance groundwater-dependent ecosystems while balancing the necessity for agricultural production.

Summary

House Bill 4902, known as the Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act of 2023, aims to amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to establish a program dedicated to groundwater conservation through the use of conservation easements. This bill provides a framework for eligible entities—including state or local government agencies and Indian tribes—to facilitate the conservation and reduction of groundwater consumption, while also allowing for continued agricultural production. The bill emphasizes the importance of promoting sustainable water management practices and supporting local, regional, or state groundwater management goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB4902 may arise from the balance between groundwater conservation initiatives and agricultural interests. While the bill aims to foster sustainability, it also allows landowners to continue agricultural operations, which could provoke debate over the effectiveness of the easement restrictions. Stakeholders may have varying opinions on how well the bill addresses the complexities of groundwater depletion, especially in regions experiencing significant declines in groundwater levels.