The bill amends the Water Quality Act and the New Mexico Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Act to strengthen the regulation of water pollution in New Mexico. It introduces new definitions related to water quality, such as "abatement costs," "aquatic resources," and "water contaminant," and establishes the Neglected and Contaminated Sites Fund to support pollution investigation and remediation. The legislation allows for general permit coverage for multiple dischargers and revises the Water Quality Management Fund, permitting the denial of permits that would exceed state or tribal water quality standards. It also mandates the Water Quality Control Commission to adopt rules for a new pollutant discharge elimination system and outlines the powers of the Department of Environment for enforcement, including penalties for violations.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the limitations of permit requirements, ensuring they do not infringe upon property rights in water or affect employer-employee relations regarding water quality. It establishes procedures for public notice and hearings for permit applications, criteria for denying applications based on environmental standards, and rules for the transfer and use of treated domestic wastewater for potable reuse. The bill emphasizes public participation and accountability in environmental protection while providing a framework for judicial review of commission actions. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance water quality management, streamline the permitting process, and clarify the responsibilities and liabilities of stakeholders involved in water pollution control.

Statutes affected:
JU substitute: 74-6-2, 74-6-4, 74-6-5, 74-6-5.2, 74-6-9, 74-6-10, 74-6-12
Final Version: 74-6-2, 74-6-4, 74-6-5, 74-6-5.2, 74-6-9, 74-6-10, 74-6-12