Senate Bill No. 2658 aims to enhance the management and study of brackish groundwater in Texas. The bill amends Sections 16.060 and 36.117 of the Water Code, requiring the Texas Water Development Board to prepare a biennial report on desalination activities, including the identification of local brackish groundwater production zones. These zones must meet specific criteria to ensure they do not negatively impact water availability or quality in surrounding areas. The bill also introduces new provisions for the exemption of certain wells from permit requirements, specifically for those withdrawing groundwater from designated brackish groundwater production zones, provided they meet specific conditions regarding water quality and documentation.

Additionally, the bill establishes monitoring and reporting requirements for operators of exempt wells, allowing districts to cancel exemptions if operators fail to comply. It also limits transport or export fees for water withdrawn from these exempt wells to 10 cents per thousand gallons and prohibits production fees for such water. The Texas Water Development Board is tasked with adjusting brackish groundwater production zones as necessary to align with the new regulations, with the changes taking effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 36.117 (Water Code 36)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 16.060, Water Code 36.117, Water Code 36.205 (Water Code 36, Water Code 16)
Engrossed: Water Code 16.060, Water Code 36.117, Water Code 36.205 (Water Code 36, Water Code 16)