STATEHOUSE (April 9, 2025) – The Indiana House recently passed legislation to safeguard Hoosiers' water supply and improve oversight on how it's regulated, according to Tippecanoe County lawmakers.
"Indiana continues to see increasing demand for water through new economic development and agricultural and residential needs," said State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort). "This legislation is a step in the right direction to make sure we're balancing those needs while protecting the water supply for our communities."
State Rep. Matt Commons (R-Williamsport) said the legislation is in part a response to water concerns associated with the Indiana Department of Economic Development's LEAP Lebanon Innovation District. Tenants at the industrial park expect to need more water than is locally available. An initial proposal to build a 50-mile pipeline from Tippecanoe County capable of transferring 100 million gallons a day was shelved so the Indiana Finance Authority could study its feasibility. Citizens Energy Group has since committed to utilizing their 10 water treatment plants and other resources to supply the LEAP District with the water they need without a pipeline.
"Water pipelines may be necessary for some new developments, but we want to make sure we aren't jeopardizing our local water supplies," Commons said. "This legislation will proactively address growing concerns on water resources and act as a guide for future water policy."
Senate Enrolled Act 4 would strengthen oversight of water infrastructure projects by requiring utilities to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission before any pipeline construction begins. State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) said the IURC would evaluate these applications to ensure projects don't deplete local water resources and are in the public's interest.
"This bill is an important step toward responsible water management while also ensuring Hoosiers' water resources are protected as we experience economic growth and demand," VanNatter said. "This is a proactive approach to make sure our policies are adaptable and safe."
In addition, the legislation would prohibit individuals from transferring substantial amounts of water out of a basin or restricted use area without first obtaining a transfer permit from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. This would address concerns of unrestricted water transfers negatively impacting water sources for local industries, agriculture and residents.
To further protect Indiana water, Senate Enrolled Act 28 provides a way for owners and operators of Significant Groundwater Withdrawal Facilities (SWWFs), such as household wells, whose water supply is not at its normal level or potable, to file a complaint with the director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The director will investigate the complaint within three business day. SWWF owners found responsible for the failure or substantial impairment of wells must provide timely and reasonable compensation to the well's owner.
Senate Enrolled Act 4 and Senate Enrolled Act 28 now go to the governor for consideration as new laws. Learn about legislation and follow session at iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Matt Commons (R-Williamsport) represents House District 13,
which includes all of Benton and Warren counties, and portions of
Fountain, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Tippecanoe and White counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) represents House District 41,
which includes portions of Boone, Clinton, Montgomery and Tippecanoe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) represents House District 38,
which includes all of Carroll and Tipton counties, and
portions of Cass, Clinton, Howard and Tippecanoe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
