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HB 3950

Relating to stored water; prescribing an effective date.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Fred Girod and 1 co-sponsor

HB 3950 - Relating to Stored Water OverviewBill Number: HB 3950 Title: Relating to stored water; prescribing an effective date. Status: In committee upon adjournment Introduced:

In committee upon adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 3950

HB 3950 - Relating to Stored Water

Overview

Bill Number: HB 3950
Title: Relating to stored water; prescribing an effective date.
Status: In committee upon adjournment
Introduced: March 06, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 3950 is to establish new regulations and management practices for stored water resources within the state. The bill aims to improve the long-term sustainability and conservation of the state's water supply by addressing issues around the storage, distribution, and usage of stored water.

Key Provisions

  • Requires the state water resources department to develop and implement a comprehensive statewide plan for the management of stored water resources
  • Mandates the installation of metering devices on all water storage facilities over a certain capacity to track water levels and usage
  • Imposes new restrictions on the withdrawal and transfer of stored water, including requiring permits and limiting the amount that can be withdrawn annually
  • Establishes a new "Stored Water Conservation Fund" to provide grants and incentives for projects that enhance water storage and efficiency
  • Directs the state to conduct a study on the feasibility of developing additional large-scale water storage infrastructure

Affected Parties and Impacts

The provisions of HB 3950 would primarily impact the state water resources department, municipal and agricultural water providers, and large commercial/industrial water users that rely on stored water sources. The new regulations and reporting requirements could increase administrative and compliance costs for these entities.

However, the bill's focus on conservation and sustainability of stored water is intended to provide long-term benefits for all state residents and industries by helping to ensure adequate future water supplies. The grants and incentives could also spur investment in water infrastructure upgrades.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HB 3950 is currently in the committee review process upon the legislature's adjournment. If passed by the committee, it would then proceed to a full floor vote in the state House of Representatives. The bill would need to also pass the state Senate and be signed by the governor to become law.

The effective date is set for January 1, 2026, which would provide a one-year implementation period for the new regulations if the bill is enacted. The state water resources department would be responsible for developing the necessary rules and procedures to carry out the bill's requirements.

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

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