Slovakia Water Act amendment faces property rights concerns

A proposed amendment to the Slovak Water Act is facing criticism regarding its impact on property rights. Members of the Progresívne Slovensko party have warned that limiting citizens' ownership rights without adequate compensation is unconstitutional. MP Michal Sabo noted that while legal burdens on state water structures exist, the lack of timely and adequate compensation for owners is a significant constitutional risk.

In response to these concerns, former Minister of the Environment Tomáš Taraba has reportedly promised cooperation to improve the draft and invited the opposition to prepare an amendment.

The amendment also introduces new responsibilities for owners of water structures, specifically including well owners. Under the proposal, owners would be explicitly required to maintain their wells and other water structures, such as water pipes and sewage networks, in proper technical condition. While the current draft does not mandate regular water testing, it emphasizes the owner's responsibility for the maintenance and technical state of the structures.