The bill, H.B. No. 1618, amends Section 27.051(i) of the Water Code to allow for specific aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects that intersect with the Edwards Aquifer, particularly in Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is granted the authority to authorize these projects through rules or permits, which include the injection of groundwater from the Edwards Aquifer, stormwater, floodwater, or groundwater through improved sinkholes or caves in karst areas. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision that explicitly permits ASR projects involving injection wells that transect the Edwards Aquifer.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the TCEQ adopt rules to implement these changes by March 1, 2026. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to enhance water management strategies in the region while ensuring environmental protections for the Edwards Aquifer.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 27.051 (Water Code 27)
House Committee Report: Water Code 27.051 (Water Code 27)