The bill amends Section 27.016 of the Water Code to enhance the inspection process for proposed Class I injection wells. It requires the executive director to conduct an inspection of the well's location upon receiving a permit application to assess local conditions and the potential impact of the well. Additionally, the bill allows the executive director to accept an inspection report from a licensed engineer or geoscientist as a substitute for the direct inspection, provided the report confirms the inspection of local conditions and includes a determination regarding casing requirements.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions that permit engineers or geoscientists to conduct inspections either in person or virtually using various technological tools such as satellite imagery or mapping software. The changes in law will apply only to permit applications submitted on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Applications filed before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 27.016 (Water Code 27)