Friday, May 23, 2025
Indiana is rich in natural resources, with water playing a key role in our state's development and success.
Surrounded by large bodies of water like the Ohio River and Lake Michigan, Indiana's abundant water resources have fueled our economic growth since 1816.
Because our water supply is so important to the strength of our economy, Senate Republicans prioritized a bill this year that will ensure Indiana's water supplies are protected for years to come.
Senate Enrolled Act 4 will help regulate large-scale water transfers, including moving water between river basins and constructing long-distance pipelines.
As Indiana becomes a more attractive destination for water-reliant industries, it is critical we have safeguards in place that consider the needs of the entire state.
With the enactment of SEA 4, we have created a framework to evaluate the environmental and economic effects of any large water transfers.
Under the new law, any utility or industry wanting to transfer water between basins will be required to obtain a permit from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. It will also require approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission for major pipeline projects, even if the water remains in the same basin.
To learn more about SEA 4, click here.
