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HB 4931

Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Wes Virdell

HB 4931 permits aquifer storage and recovery projects that intersect the Edwards Aquifer in Texas, potentially enhancing drought resilience while raising environmental protection concerns.

Comm. report sent to Local & Consent Calendar
#edwardsaquifer(s0068) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #environment--water(i0320) #medinacounty(g0003) #water--conservation(i097l) #water--development(i0875) #water--general(i0885)
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Bill Summary · HB 4931

Legislative bill overview

HB 4931 authorizes aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects that intersect the Edwards Aquifer in Texas, allowing water to be injected into and extracted from underground formations that overlap with this sensitive groundwater system. The bill appears to streamline permitting or regulatory processes for such projects in the Edwards Aquifer region, a critical water source for Central Texas including San Antonio.

Why is this important

The Edwards Aquifer supplies drinking water to approximately 2 million Texans and supports endangered species habitats, making water management decisions in this area consequential for both human consumption and environmental protection. ASR projects can help store water during wet periods for use during droughts, but injecting and withdrawing water from aquifers that intersect the Edwards Aquifer raises questions about water quality, contamination risks, and impacts on this already-stressed resource.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental protection vs. water flexibility: Balancing the need for drought-resilient water storage against risks to a sensitive aquifer system that supports endangered species
  • Regulatory clarity: Whether the bill adequately defines safety standards, monitoring requirements, and liability protections for ASR operations near the Edwards Aquifer
  • Regional water competition: How ASR projects might affect water availability and quality for downstream users and agricultural interests dependent on Edwards Aquifer water

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

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