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LC 143

Generally revise state water law

2025 Regular Session

LC 143 - Generally Revise State Water Law OverviewBill Number: LC 143 Title: Generally Revise State Water Law Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process Introduced: September 04, 2024 P

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 143

LC 143 - Generally Revise State Water Law

Overview

Bill Number: LC 143
Title: Generally Revise State Water Law
Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process
Introduced: September 04, 2024

Purpose and Intent

The purpose of LC 143 is to comprehensively update and modernize the state's water laws to address emerging challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources. The bill aims to balance the needs of agricultural, municipal, industrial, and environmental stakeholders while preparing the state for the impacts of climate change on water supply and demand.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a statewide water planning process to develop 50-year projections of water supply and demand
  • Requires all water users to obtain permits and report water usage data to improve monitoring and management
  • Authorizes the creation of regional water management authorities to coordinate planning and infrastructure investments
  • Increases penalties for unauthorized water use and empowers the state to enforce water rights more effectively
  • Dedicates a portion of state revenue to a new Water Infrastructure Fund to finance projects like storage, conservation, and treatment
  • Mandates water conservation standards for new residential and commercial construction
  • Streamlines the water rights adjudication process to resolve longstanding disputes

Affected Parties and Impacts

LC 143 would impact a wide range of water users and stakeholders across the state, including:

  • Agricultural producers who would face new reporting and conservation requirements
  • Municipal water providers who would need to update infrastructure and management practices
  • Industrial facilities that rely on water for operations and would face new permitting rules
  • Environmental groups and recreational users concerned about protecting aquatic ecosystems
  • Taxpayers who would contribute to the new Water Infrastructure Fund

Overall, the bill aims to promote more sustainable, equitable, and resilient water management practices statewide.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

LC 143 was introduced in September 2024 but ultimately died in the legislative process without being enacted into law. The bill faced opposition from some agricultural and industry groups concerned about the new regulatory burdens. While the legislature recognized the need to update the state's water laws, they were unable to reach a consensus on the specific provisions during the session.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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