JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri House of Representatives has given approval to a legislative measure that seeks to protect one of the state’s most vital resources: water.
Led by State Representative Jamie Burger, the House passed HB 2153, a crucial legislation aimed at preserving Missouri’s invaluable water resources. This bill seeks to regulate the exportation of water from the state by limiting or eliminating the shipping of water out of the state, ensuring its availability for residents and businesses within Missouri.
Under the proposed legislation, it would be unlawful for any entity to withdraw water for exportation out of the state without obtaining a water export permit issued by the Department of Natural Resources. The bill outlines a comprehensive process for permit issuance, including rigorous review by the Department and approval by the Clean Water Commission.
Highlighting the significance of Missouri’s water resources, Rep. Burger, R-Benton, emphasized, “Water is the state’s most valuable resource, second only to land. While acknowledging potential exceptions, our priority is to retain water within Missouri to meet the needs of our communities.”
House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of proactive measures to protect Missouri’s water supply. “The passage of HB 2153 is a significant step towards safeguarding our state’s water resources, especially in light of increasing water scarcity in neighboring states,” said Speaker Plocher.
Supporters of HB 2153 have underscored the financial implications of water transfer projects, citing examples such as the Red River Valley Water Supply Project, a 167-mile pipeline with a $1.2 billion cost, transferring water from Minnesota to North Dakota. Concerns have also been raised regarding drought conditions in Missouri and the potential impact of water exportation on local communities.
As Missouri remains a water-rich state, the passage of HB 2153 signifies a commitment to striking a balance between utilization and conservation of water resources, taking into account both local needs and broader regional concerns.
Representative Jamie Burger, a Republican, represents Scott and Mississippi Counties (District 148) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to his first two-year term in November 2020. For more information, please contact Rep. Burger’s office at 573-751-5471 or via email at Jamie.Burger@House.Mo.Gov.