OH HB257

Establishes a comprehensive water management program for withdrawals and consumptive uses from Ohio's Lake Erie basin, including permit requirements, registration systems, and fee structures based on withdrawal capacity.

Creates a Water Resources Commission with three governor-appointed members to hear appeals of orders issued by the chief of the division of soil and water resources regarding water withdrawal permits and violations.

Requires existing large water users to register facilities and existing baseline facilities in high-quality watersheds to obtain permits by specified deadlines; establishes thresholds for new permit requirements based on watershed size and water source quality.

Implements science-based assessment process and water conservation requirements for permit applicants, including environmentally sound and economically feasible conservation measures appropriate to each water use sector.

Establishes civil penalties up to $2,500 plus $500 per day for violations, authorizes the attorney general to bring enforcement actions, and allows aggrieved parties to pursue civil suits to compel compliance with water withdrawal regulations.