State Representative Lynn Smith, chair of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee, said on Mar. 31 that she welcomes the final passage of House Resolution 1008, which ratifies changes to Georgia’s comprehensive statewide water management plan.
Smith said the legislation is important for ensuring that Georgia’s water management plan continues to serve communities effectively by strengthening regional water planning councils. “I am grateful to see this legislation reach the governor’s desk to ensure that Georgia’s statewide water management plan continues to serve our communities effectively by strengthening the structure of our regional water planning councils,” Smith said. “I want to thank my colleagues for their work on this effort, especially the members of the House Special Committee on Resource Management Water Subcommittee, who held several meetings across the state during the fall of 2025 to study Georgia’s water challenges and their impact on economic development. By improving how these councils operate, we are taking an important step toward continuing to responsibly manage one of our state’s most vital resources.”
The comprehensive statewide water management plan was first developed in 2008 by the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) and later adopted by both the State Water Council and General Assembly. The original framework created ten regional councils tasked with addressing local needs such as supply, wastewater treatment, stormwater issues, quality control and conservation.
In September 2025, after reviewing council operations, it was found that some regions had difficulty maintaining a quorum due to current appointment structures. This led EPD officials to recommend changes aimed at improving council functionality. The State Water Council adopted amendments in December 2025 and submitted them for legislative approval in January through HR 1008.
If signed into law, HR 1008 will reduce council member appointments, eliminate alternate positions and extend appointment terms from three years to six years. It also requires each council include at least one representative from every major demand sector: municipal, industrial, agricultural and energy interests.
HR 1008 passed unanimously in the State Senate and now awaits consideration by Governor Brian Kemp.
Burns has served as a Republican member representing Georgia’s 159th House District since his election in 2005 according to Wikipedia.
