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Nevada lawmakers are reviving Assembly Bill 109, which aims to require geothermal operations to obtain permits for groundwater use, closing a loophole that currently exempts some industrial users. The bill, introduced by Assemblymember Selena LaRue Hatch, D-Washoe, would impact geothermal developers who pump and reinject large quantities of water without state engineer approval.

Supporters, including rural water users and several tribal and conservation groups, argue it would ensure all industrial groundwater pumpers undergo permitting. Opponents, including geothermal developers, claim it could hinder the state's geothermal energy leadership by extending project timelines and costs.

The bill would allow the state engineer to assess water availability and potential impacts on existing rights. With Nevada's reliance on groundwater, the bill addresses concerns about the interconnectedness of geothermal fluids and drinking water, aiming to prevent conflicts among water rights users.