Committee backs HB 306 with new penalties and stream‑maintenance provisions
The conference committee recommended HB 306, which sets a fine structure (described in committee as $5,000 for the first fine and $15,000 for the second), adds violations for failure to maintain natural streams, and restricts taking waterways without House and Senate approval; effective date set July 1, 2026.
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Committee members discussed substantive changes to HB 306 (state water code penalties), describing a fine structure the draft implements and language addressing stream maintenance. During discussion a member summarized the penalties: "the penalties will be $5,000 for the first fine and then $15,000 for the second fine." The draft also adds that failing to maintain a natural stream is a violation and bars taking waterways without approval by the House and Senate.
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