This bill appropriates additional funds to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for fiscal year 2026, while also reducing certain appropriations. Specifically, it includes an appropriation of $425,300 from the ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Fund for administration and support services, and a total of $59,916,400 from the same fund for water quality initiatives. Additionally, the bill provides for a cash transfer of $10,000,000 from the General Fund to the Water Pollution Control Fund, designated for drinking and wastewater grants. The DEQ is tasked with administering these funds through a competitive grant process, prioritizing smaller systems and other factors.

Furthermore, the bill establishes reappropriation authority for unexpended balances from the General Fund, allowing up to $2,500,000 for document management implementation. It also exempts the DEQ from specific program transfer limitations for fiscal year 2025, facilitating greater flexibility in fund management. The bill declares an emergency, making certain provisions effective immediately upon passage, while others will take effect on July 1, 2025.