The Kansas Legislature is considering a bill that would establish Local Enhancement Management Areas. Tracy Streeter with the Kansas Water Office says this would be similar to an Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area, but with more local control over the process.

The bill passed unanimously in the Senate, which was the chamber of origin. The House has not taken action.

Another bill  would expand the ability to create a water bank.  Currently the state is limited to two banks, one for groundwater and one for surface water. Streeter says the purpose is to be able to market water while also requiring conservation.

The bill would amend the existing act to repeal the two water bank limitation. It has passed the House and is in the Senate Agriculture Committee.