Bill > SB427

This bill modifies Oregon's water rights laws to add a new consideration of "diminishment of streamflow" when evaluating water transfer and use applications. Specifically, the bill requires the Water Resources Department to consider whether proposed water transfers or changes in water use would reduce stream flow when reviewing applications. The bill amends several existing statutes related to water rights, including ORS 537.211, 537.803, 540.510, 540.520, 540.523, 540.524, 540.530, and 540.531. Under the new provisions, water transfer applications can be denied if they would result in reducing stream flow, in addition to the existing criteria of not injuring existing water rights. This change applies to water right applications filed on or after the effective date of the bill. The goal appears to be protecting stream ecosystems and preserving water resources by adding an additional environmental protection mechanism to the water rights review process. Key terms like "streamflow" and "water rights" are technical legal terms referring to the volume of water in a stream and the legal permissions to use water from a specific source, respectively.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB427