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HB 1523

Relating to a temporary prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Donna Campbell and 3 co-sponsors

Texas bill temporarily bans TCEQ authorization of Class V injection wells for aquifer storage and recovery projects pending further legislative review.

Removed from local & uncontested calendar
#carrizo-wilcoxaquifer(ss9n1) #citygovernment--utilities(i0068) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #environment--water(i0320) #injectionwells(s0692) #specialdistricts&authorities--groundwaterconservedist.(i0013) #specialdistricts&authorities--water&utility(i0755) #water--development(i0875) #water--general(i0885)
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Bill Summary · HB 1523

Legislative bill overview

HB 1523 would temporarily ban the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) from authorizing Class V injection wells specifically for aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects. The bill appears designed to pause new ASR well permits while the legislature evaluates the technology's environmental and water security implications.

Why is this important

Aquifer storage and recovery projects inject treated water into underground formations during wet periods for withdrawal during droughts, offering potential drought resilience for Texas communities. A temporary prohibition could delay water infrastructure projects while raising questions about whether ASR is being adequately regulated, or conversely, whether precautionary restrictions are necessary before expanding the practice.

Potential points of contention

  • Water security vs. environmental caution: Supporters may argue ASR is critical climate adaptation infrastructure, while opponents worry about underground water contamination risks and long-term aquifer impacts
  • Regulatory approach: Debate over whether the problem requires a permit freeze versus improved TCEQ oversight and safety standards for existing authority
  • Scope and duration: Unclear what "temporary" means and whether the prohibition applies only to new projects or existing permit applications already in review

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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