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GA SB462
Bill
Status
Introduced
3/10/2010
Primary Sponsor
Jim Butterworth
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AI Summary
- Establishes the "River Basin Protection Act" requiring permits from the Environmental Protection Division for any interbasin transfer of more than 100,000 gallons of water per day across Georgia's 14 designated river basins
- Declares state policy to approximate natural flow levels, protect against over- and under-allocations of water in all river systems and aquifers, and minimize consumptive water uses to the maximum extent practicable
- Interbasin transfer permits are issued for a maximum of 10 years with a mandatory review at year 5, and applicants must demonstrate water conservation compliance and that no cost-effective alternatives to the transfer exist
- Requires public notice to affected local governments and utilities at least 30 days before permit action, with mandatory public hearings if requested by a local government, public utility, or 20 or more citizens
- Exempts agricultural water withdrawals on contiguous permitted areas spanning two basins and water transfers connected to mining or product shipment, and prohibits any person receiving transferred water in one county from further transferring it to a third county except for critical needs
Legislative Description
"River Basin Protection Ac"; statement of policy; permitting of interbasin transfers of water
Last Action
Senate Read and Referred
3/10/2010
Committee Referrals
Natural Resources and the Environment3/10/2010
Full Bill Text
No bill text available