H.B. No. 1238 amends Section 27.016 of the Water Code to enhance the inspection process for proposed Class I injection wells. The bill mandates that upon receiving a permit application, the executive director must conduct an inspection of the proposed well location to assess local conditions and the potential impact of the well. Additionally, it allows the executive director to accept an inspection report from a licensed engineer or geoscientist, which must confirm the inspection of the well location and provide a determination regarding casing requirements.

The bill introduces provisions for virtual inspections, permitting engineers or geoscientists to conduct inspections using satellite imagery, mapping software, or other information sources. However, if any issues arise from a virtual inspection, the executive director has the authority to require an in-person inspection. The changes in law will apply only to permit applications filed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 27.016 (Water Code 27)
House Committee Report: Water Code 27.016 (Water Code 27)
Engrossed: Water Code 27.016 (Water Code 27)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 27.016 (Water Code 27)
Enrolled: Water Code 27.016 (Water Code 27)