H.B. No. 4460 amends the definition of "flood project" within the Water Code to expand the types of projects eligible for financial assistance from the flood infrastructure fund. The bill retains existing categories such as planning, design, and regulatory approval activities, while also introducing new categories. Specifically, it adds the construction and implementation of nonstructural projects that utilize nature-based features for flood risk mitigation, as well as the construction of multi-purpose flood mitigation and drainage infrastructure projects. These new projects are designed to control, divert, capture, or impound various types of water, including floodwater and treated wastewater, and to treat and distribute this water to create an additional source of water supply.

The bill removes the previous language that simply concluded with "and" after the existing categories, thereby streamlining the definition. The changes aim to enhance the state's ability to address flood risks and improve water management through innovative and sustainable practices. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 15.531 (Water Code 15)