This bill mandates the Department of Environment to establish rules for the use of naturally occurring brackish water by December 31, 2026. Brackish water is defined as water sourced from an aquifer at a depth of 2,500 feet or more, containing at least 1,000 parts per million of dissolved solids, and not classified as produced water. The bill outlines specific appropriations from the general fund to support various initiatives related to brackish water use, including exploration, treatment, and aquifer characterization.

The bill allocates a total of $70 million across several sections: $50 million to the Office of the State Engineer for water projects benefiting specific regions, $16 million to the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology for technology development and aquifer monitoring, and $4 million to New Mexico State University for similar purposes. All unspent funds at the end of fiscal year 2030 are required to revert to the general fund, ensuring fiscal responsibility.