S.B. No. 1663 amends Section 26.408(b) of the Water Code to enhance notification procedures regarding groundwater contamination. The bill stipulates that the commission must notify affected parties as soon as practicable, but no later than 30 days after receiving notice or gaining independent knowledge of contamination. The notification methods have been expanded to include first-class mail, e-mail, and notices placed on the doors of residences, in addition to the existing methods. The bill specifies that notifications must be sent to each owner of a private drinking water well that may be affected, each applicable groundwater conservation district, and residents of each residential address within one mile of the contamination site.

This legislation aims to improve public awareness and safety concerning groundwater contamination by ensuring timely and effective communication with all potentially impacted individuals and entities. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 26.408 (Water Code 26)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 26.408 (Water Code 26)
Engrossed: Water Code 26.408 (Water Code 26)
House Committee Report: Water Code 26.408 (Water Code 26)
Enrolled: Water Code 26.408 (Water Code 26)