The bill amends the Water Quality Act to strengthen the regulation of water pollution in New Mexico by introducing new definitions such as "barrier," "compensatory mitigation," "general permit," and "pathogen," while revising existing terms like "gray water" and "water contaminant." It establishes the Neglected and Contaminated Sites Fund to support remediation efforts and allows for general permit coverage for multiple dischargers. The bill also revises the Water Quality Management Fund, updates the distribution of penalties, and permits the denial of permits that would result in water contaminant levels exceeding state or tribal standards. Additionally, it empowers the Water Quality Control Commission to adopt rules for preventing water pollution and managing septage and sludge disposal, ensuring alignment with federal regulations.

Moreover, the bill replaces the term "regulations" with "rules" throughout the text and outlines the commission's responsibilities in establishing rules for various water management aspects, including new sewer systems and the introduction of water contaminants. It introduces provisions for gray water use in residential settings without requiring permits and mandates the commission to develop rules for state-led responses to water pollution and the use of treated wastewater for potable reuse. The bill clarifies permit application procedures, public notice requirements, and conditions for permit denial or revocation, while also specifying penalties for noncompliance and ensuring that the Water Quality Act respects property rights related to water. To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates $50 million from the general fund for the neglected and contaminated sites fund, aiming to enhance water quality management and protect public health.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 74-6-2, 74-6-4, 74-6-5, 74-6-5.2, 74-6-10, 74-6-12