IN SB0356

Establishes the water management authority as a state agency with a governor-appointed administrator to consolidate water management functions currently spread across multiple departments and commissions.

Creates nine regional water management councils based on hydrological regions to assist in implementing a statewide water management plan that must be adopted by July 1, 2015.

Transfers powers and duties related to water rights, flood control, reservoirs, lakes, Great Lakes compact, channels, conservancy districts, and drainage projects to the water management authority upon adoption of the statewide plan.

Designates certain drainage projects as "drainage projects of water management importance" requiring a permit from the administrator; exempts such projects from separate flood control permits.

Requires drainage boards to account for wetlands benefits when determining assessments and allows landowners to petition to prevent drainage of wetlands on their property; requires highway agencies to consult with the administrator to limit sedimentation.