The bill amends Section 74-6-4 of the New Mexico Water Quality Act, enhancing the responsibilities of the Water Quality Control Commission. It mandates the commission to adopt rules for the discharge, handling, transport, storage, recycling, or treatment of treated produced water, specifically allowing for various uses such as pilot projects, industrial applications, and irrigation of industrial crops. The commission is required to establish these rules by December 31, 2026, and to ensure that the uses of treated produced water are conducted safely, particularly in relation to surface and groundwater protection.

Additionally, the bill removes previous language that restricted the use of treated produced water in road construction and other activities unrelated to oil and gas operations. It emphasizes the need for the commission to consider a range of factors when developing rules, including the potential impacts on public health and the environment, and to ensure that any permits issued align with federal water quality standards. The bill also includes provisions for the commission to govern the transfer and use of treated domestic wastewater for potable reuse, ensuring that such projects prioritize human health and safety.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 74-6-4