N.C. Okays Drought Bill

Recently, the NC House tentatively approved a bill that would give governors more authority to ensure local governments are reducing water use during droughts and shift water around in emergencies. The bill also tentatively grants other powers. Source: N.C. Artisan Photo Gallery

The NC house recently approved a bill granting more state control of local water resources. The bill, given an initial OK by a vote of 84-27, was sought by Gov. Mike Easley as the state struggles through another year with 96 out of 100 counties in some form of drought.

Organizations that run large public water systems have been pushing back on the bill, arguing they best know how to respond to local drought.

The House plan would allow state officials to approve or disapprove of local water management plans if they determine they won’t reduce water consumption. They could also direct local officials to ramp up their conservation measures.

Lawmakers also approved an amendment opposed by environmental groups that made it optional for water systems to require a separate meter for residents who install in-ground sprinklers.

The bill also would:

• Allow the governor to declare a water shortage emergency that allows the state environmental secretary to order a local system with excess water to transfer it to the water system under the emergency.

• Make clear that “gray water,” or water used to bathe or wash dishes, can be recycled to water flowers and trees. The law had banned that practice.