HB 1126 – Watershed Development Commissions:

This bill, which alters the membership and responsibilities of watershed development commissions, passed third reading in the House with a vote of 89-0 and has been sent to the Senate. Cosponsors were added in the Senate, reflecting growing bipartisan support for increased oversight and efficiency in managing watershed resources.

SB 4 – Water Matters:

This bill, which places new regulations on long-haul water pipelines and interbasin transfers, passed the Senate on third reading (48-0) and has been assigned a House sponsor. The legislation will require water utilities to obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) before constructing or leasing large-scale water projects. This is a major step toward enhancing state oversight of water transfers and protecting Indiana’s groundwater resources.

SB 28 – Ground Water Emergencies:

This bill allows owners of significant groundwater
withdrawal facilities to file complaints when a water well fails to supply its normal water level. If a complaint is filed, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) must launch an investigation within 5 to 7 business days. This week, additional Senate cosponsors were added, and a House sponsor was assigned, signaling further legislative momentum.

SB 426 – Water Utilities:

This bill expands the oversight of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) for water utilities, ensuring stricter enforcement for utilities that receive repeated environmental compliance violations. Additional Senate cosponsors were added this week, and a House sponsor has been assigned. This legislation could have a lasting impact on groundwater protection and utility accountability.