H.B. No. 4630 amends the Texas Water Code to enhance the regulation of artesian water wells by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The bill modifies Sections 7.142(a) and (b) to include new provisions regarding offenses related to water well regulations, specifically removing references to Section 11.203 and updating the punishment structure for certain offenses. Additionally, it introduces Section 11.2011, which clarifies that the regulations in this subchapter apply only to artesian wells drilled outside the jurisdiction of groundwater conservation districts or similar entities.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several existing provisions, including Sections 11.202(d) and (e), 11.203, 11.204, and 11.207, streamlining the regulatory framework for artesian wells. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 7.142, Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7.187 (Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7, Water Code 7)
House Committee Report: Water Code 7.142, Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7.187 (Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7, Water Code 7)
Engrossed: Water Code 7.142, Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7.187 (Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7, Water Code 7)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 7.142, Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7.187 (Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7, Water Code 7)
Enrolled: Water Code 7.142, Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7.187 (Subchapter F, Chapter , Water Code 7, Water Code 7)