ID S1307

Repeals Chapter 9, Title 42 (Distribution of Water to Consumers) and multiple sections of Chapter 13, Title 42, replacing them with reorganized provisions governing lateral water users' associations, including definitions, organization structure, board of directors, and lateral manager duties

Establishes triple damages liability for anyone who wrongfully diverts water, tampers with headgates, cuts ditches, or destroys water infrastructure without consent from the water delivery organization, lateral manager, or watermaster

Creates three alternative methods for appointing lateral managers when associations fail to elect one: the association's board of directors may appoint, water users may select by majority written document, or the water delivery organization or Department of Water Resources director may appoint upon written request

Sets assessment deadlines (due April 15, payable May 1, delinquent after June 15) with 10% penalty and 10% annual interest for late payments, and authorizes liens on water users' land for unpaid assessments that take priority except over taxes and water delivery organization assessments

Declares an emergency with effective date of July 1, 2026