Relating to the participation of certain counties in joint planning in groundwater management areas.

SB 2498 allows counties without groundwater districts to participate in regional groundwater planning. Specifically, counties located in groundwater management areas but not covered by a district may appoint a representative to join joint planning meetings. This representative can present the county's interests, future needs, and groundwater resource data during planning. The state water commission and water board must provide technical assistance to these counties to support their participation in the process.