Is Missouri’s Water at Risk? An Examination of SB 782

Missouri, known for its abundant freshwater systems, is currently facing a legislative proposal that could potentially impact its water resources. Senate Bill 782 (SB 782), sponsored by Senator Bean and Senator Burger¹², has raised concerns about the future of Missouri’s water.

The Bill: SB 782

SB 782 aims to regulate the export of water outside the state of Missouri¹. Under this act, it would be unlawful for any person to withdraw any water source for export outside the state of Missouri unless such person holds a water export permit issued by the Department of Natural Resources¹. The bill’s language, however, has raised concerns about the potential for companies to export water out of Missouri under certain circumstances¹.

Potential Impact on Missouri Residents

The bill could have significant implications for Missouri residents. While the specifics of how this bill could negatively affect Missouri residents are not yet clear, it’s important to consider the potential consequences. Water is a vital resource for all life and economic activities, and any legislation that could potentially lead to its depletion needs to be scrutinized carefully.

The Global Water Crisis

Water scarcity is a growing global issue. Many states and countries are desperately trying to procure water due to climate change and groundwater pumping³⁴. This desperation could potentially lead to Missouri becoming a target for water acquisition⁵⁶.

The Case of California and China

California and China serve as examples of regions that have faced significant water management issues⁷⁸⁹¹⁰. Both regions have experienced severe water shortages, leading to a desperate search for water resources. This has resulted in water being transported from places like Missouri to California and foreign countries¹¹¹²¹³.

Companies Potentially Involved

While specific companies that might potentially sell Missouri’s water if given an exemption by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are not explicitly mentioned, it’s important to note that foreign corporations are increasingly purchasing land in the U.S¹¹¹². These purchases often come with unlimited access to valuable water underneath the soil¹¹¹².

Conclusion

In light of these considerations, it’s crucial to ensure that the language of SB 782 is clear and unambiguous to prevent any potential misuse of Missouri’s water resources. The state’s water is a precious resource that should be protected and preserved for the benefit of its residents and future generations. It’s essential to have a comprehensive and informed discussion about this bill to safeguard Missouri’s water resources.