S.B. 186 Summary

• Establishes a comprehensive permitting program for water withdrawals and consumptive uses from the Great Lakes basin area within Ohio, with different thresholds based on water source type and watershed size.

• Creates a Water Resources Commission with three members appointed by the governor to hear appeals of chief's decisions regarding water permits and enforcement orders.

• Requires facilities making new or increased withdrawals/consumptive uses above specified thresholds to obtain permits demonstrating no significant adverse impacts, incorporation of water conservation measures, and compliance with applicable laws and the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact.

• Implements registration requirements for existing large water withdrawal facilities and annual reporting requirements including water conservation practice certifications for facilities in the Great Lakes basin.

• Establishes permit fees ranging from $250-$10,000 annually based on withdrawal capacity, with enforcement mechanisms including civil penalties up to $2,500 plus $500 per day for violations, and allows aggrieved persons to pursue civil actions for noncompliance.