WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 218

Relating to the transfer of groundwater outside a groundwater conservation district's boundaries.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Daniel Alders and 19 co-sponsors

Texas bill establishing rules for transferring groundwater outside conservation district boundaries, affecting water rights, agricultural access, and regional water resource management.

Filed
#permits(s0011) #specialdistricts&authorities--groundwaterconservedist.(i0013) #specialdistricts&authorities--water&utility(i0755)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 218

Legislative bill overview

HB 218 addresses the conditions and procedures governing the transfer of groundwater outside the boundaries of a groundwater conservation district (GCD) in Texas. The bill modifies existing water law to establish rules for how groundwater extracted within a GCD can be moved and used in areas outside the district's jurisdiction. This represents a significant policy decision about water resource management across district boundaries.

Why is this important

Groundwater is a critical resource in Texas, particularly in areas dependent on aquifers like the Ogallala. The ability to transfer groundwater outside a district's boundaries affects agricultural operations, municipal water supplies, industrial use, and competing interests between regions. How these transfers are regulated impacts water availability, pricing, and sustainability planning across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • District authority vs. property rights: Whether GCDs can restrict or regulate groundwater transfers by property owners seeking to sell or relocate their water resources
  • Interstate/inter-regional water conflicts: Potential disputes between water-abundant and water-scarce regions, particularly affecting rural agricultural areas versus growing urban centers
  • Groundwater depletion concerns: Whether allowing transfers outside district boundaries undermines local conservation efforts and accelerates aquifer depletion in extraction areas
  • Economic impacts on local communities: Effects on farmers and ranchers who depend on groundwater and may face competition from external buyers willing to pay premium prices

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

Sign in to ask a question.