SB1789 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

RIPARIAN PROTECTION ACT
Last Action

2/06/2025 - Senate: Referred to Assignments
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance

Synopsis As Introduced

Creates the Riparian Protection and Water Quality Practices Act. Requires landowners who own property that is adjacent to a water body identified and mapped on a buffer-protection map to maintain a buffer to protect the State's water resources. Sets forth requirements concerning the types of buffers that must be installed and the timelines for their installation. Requires soil and water conservation districts to develop and submit to each local water management authority a summary of watercourses within their jurisdiction by July 1, 2026. Requires local water management authorities to incorporate these recommendations into their comprehensive water management plans. Exempts certain lands from the requirements of the Act. Allows the Department to withhold funding from local authorities that fail to implement the Act. Contains provisions concerning judicial review of decisions of the Department of Natural Resources. Specifies that the Act applies to State property. Defines terms.
Actions

DateChamberAction
2/06/2025SenateFiled with Secretary by Sen. Laura Ellman
2/06/2025SenateFirst Reading
2/06/2025SenateReferred to Assignments
4/04/2025SenateAdded as Co-Sponsor Sen. Graciela Guzmán
3/03/2026SenateAdded as Co-Sponsor Sen. Rachel Ventura