Water Rights Protection Act of 2024

This bill requires federal agencies (like the Interior or Agriculture Departments) to follow state water laws when managing permits for water use, such as irrigation or groundwater access. It directly affects states managing water rights, water users (including farmers and tribes), and federal agencies by preventing federal overreach into state water decisions. Key provisions include banning federal conditions that would transfer water rights to the U.S., alter state definitions of "beneficial use," or impose stricter rules than state law allows. The bill explicitly does not change existing federal laws like the Endangered Species Act or tribal water rights.