Providing for registration of extraordinary water users; imposing a water resource fee; establishing the Water Use Fund; and providing for submission of a question to the electorate authorizing incurring of indebtedness for water-related environmental initiatives.
Impact
The passage of HB20 would likely lead to substantial changes in state water regulations, affecting both agricultural and industrial sectors that rely heavily on water resources. The bill proposes the creation of a Water Use Fund, which would be financed through the fees collected from registered extraordinary water users. This fund aims to support environmental measures aimed at preserving and protecting water quality and availability. Critics of the bill have raised concerns about how these fees might be structured and whether they would disproportionately burden certain sectors or consumers.
Summary
House Bill 20 (HB20) focuses on the management of water resources by establishing a registration system for extraordinary water users and introducing a water resource fee. The primary intention of this legislation is to create a sustainable framework for overseeing significant water usage and to generate funds that can be allocated to water-related environmental initiatives. By mandating registration, the bill seeks to enhance accountability among users who consume large amounts of water, thereby supporting effective resource allocation and conservation efforts in the state.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB20 appears to be mixed, with strong support from environmental advocates who view the legislation as a necessary step toward sustainable water management. However, there is also resistance from certain industry groups and stakeholders who fear that the new regulations and fees could impose additional financial burdens on their operations. The discussions around the bill highlight the ongoing tension between environmental protection efforts and economic interests, with various stakeholders presenting differing viewpoints on the best approach to water resource management.
Contention
Key points of contention primarily revolve around how the bill defines 'extraordinary water users' and the implications of the associated registration and fees. Moreover, concerns have been raised about the equitable distribution of the fees and how the funds generated will be utilized. There are fears that without careful oversight, the bill could lead to misallocation of resources or ineffective environmental initiatives. The solution proposed by HB20 is considered vital, yet the debate continues over the balance between necessary regulation and the potential for unintended consequences.
Updating and expanding the storm water planning requirements to be undertaken by counties; authorizing counties to regulate storm water within a watershed-based planning area; authorizing the formation of water resources management authorities; enabling counties, municipalities and water resources management authorities to develop integrated water resources management plans; imposing duties and conferring powers on the Department of Environmental Protection, the Environmental Quality Board, counties, municipalities and water resources management authorities; providing for financing and for waiver of use for certain grant or loan funds; establishing the Integrated Water Resources Management Account; and making repeals.
Providing for the Waterfront Redevelopment Grant Program; establishing the Waterfront Redevelopment Fund; and imposing powers and duties on the Department of Community and Economic Development.
In storm sewers and watercourses, further providing for authority of boroughs and for manner of financing work; providing for storm water management plans and facilities for incorporated towns; and, in watercourses, flood protection projects and storm water systems, further providing for establishing and changing watercourses, flood protection projects and storm water systems and for assessment of benefits and liens.
In grounds and buildings, providing for certified point-of-use filter required; establishing the Safe Schools Drinking Water Fund; and imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection.