Bill > HB1190

This bill establishes the Water Protection and Restoration Trust Fund, a new financial mechanism designed to improve water quality in Indiana. The bill creates a water quality board consisting of 12 members from various state agencies and appointed representatives, which will manage the fund and develop a surface water quality financial assistance program. The state comptroller will transfer $1,660,000 annually from six different state agencies to the fund, which will be used specifically for assessing and reducing nutrients that negatively impact surface waters. The board will oversee an application-based program where potential recipients must submit diagnostic studies, comprehensive remediation plans, and demonstrate a substantial likelihood of improving water quality. Applicants must provide periodic progress updates, and the fund will be continuously appropriated, meaning unused funds will not revert to the general fund at the end of each fiscal year. The treasurer of state will administer and invest the fund's assets, with all interest earned being reinvested. The board is empowered to adopt rules, solicit donations, and establish policies for fund management, with the ultimate goal of protecting and restoring lake and stream water quality in Indiana.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1190/details