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Senate passes bill to return some agricultural water-metering authority to EPD
Summary
House Bill 143 passed the Senate to revise Georgia's agricultural water-metering program. Sponsors said the bill reduces burdens on farmers by returning certain permitting, metering and maintenance responsibilities to the Environmental Protection Division and authorizes EPD to carry out installation and limited maintenance work.
The Senate approved House Bill 143, a measure that modifies Georgia—s agricultural water-metering program and returns some permitting and metering responsibilities to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).
Sponsor explanation Senator (District 11) presented the bill as an agricultural-support measure. He said most of his district—s agricultural water use is already metered and that the bill would "remove some requirements that the farmers have revolving around the meters" while authorizing EPD to perform certain installation and maintenance tasks.
Policy details and rationale Floor discussion indicated the bill reduces reporting or equipment burdens on some farmers and allows EPD to provide installation and limited maintenance assistance; sponsors framed the changes as technical fixes to help agriculture. The bill was described as supported by farm stakeholders and EPD staff.
Vote and outcome The Senate voted 53 yeas and 0 nays; the bill passed the chamber having received the requisite constitutional majority.
Ending Supporters said the measure will streamline metering and permitting processes for agricultural water users and allow EPD to provide operational assistance where appropriate.
