Groundwater, crucial in arid regions, faces persistent over-exploitation despite regulatory policies, particularly in Jordan's Northeast, heavily reliant on agriculture. This study assesses Jordan's groundwater policies across two periods: 1985–1998 (pre-policy) and 1998–2015 (post-policy). Contrary to expectations, the 1998 legislation showed no significant impact, with agricultural extraction rising by 18% post-policy. Groundwater levels consistently declined post-1998, averaging an annual 2-m drop and a cumulative 20-m drawdown over 25 years. This research provides a timely evaluation of water legislation's influence on groundwater, offering a unique resource for researchers. Recommendations stress policy enhancements for sustainable management, including advanced monitoring and water-efficient crops. Urgent legislative reforms, such as tariff increases, are crucial for groundwater sustainability. Despite existing laws, successful management demands stakeholder collaboration to ensure legislative objectives align with implementation, preserving this vital resource.