Bill > HB3342

This bill makes several significant changes to Oregon's water rights and management laws. It introduces provisions for the Water Resources Department to streamline and modernize its processes, including allowing electronic document submission, changing public notice requirements, and modifying application and transfer procedures. Key provisions include the ability to accept credit card payments, publish notices in a weekly public notice instead of newspapers, and implement a phased fee payment system for water right applications. The bill also clarifies and expands the department's ability to manage water right transfers, temporary water use changes, and ground water appropriations. Additionally, it introduces new requirements for listing water source restrictions and provides more flexible timelines for water right permit development, particularly for municipal, quasi-municipal, and group domestic water uses. The bill aims to improve administrative efficiency, provide more transparency in water rights processes, and offer more flexibility for water users while maintaining protections for existing water rights. Most of these changes will become operative on April 1, 2026, giving the Water Resources Department time to prepare for implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3342