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Bill

HB 1618

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

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Caroline Harris Davila and 2 co-sponsors

Establishes regulatory framework for aquifer storage and recovery projects that inject and withdraw water from the Edwards Aquifer in Texas.

Laid on the table subject to call
#edwardsaquifer(s0068) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #environment--water(i0320) #injectionwells(s0692) #permits(s0011) #williamsoncounty(g1525) #water--development(i0875) #water--general(i0885)
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Bill Summary · HB 1618

Legislative bill overview

HB 1618 addresses aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects that operate within or intersect the Edwards Aquifer in Texas. The bill establishes regulatory parameters or permits for injecting and withdrawing water in this critical groundwater resource. This legislation applies specifically to ASR operations that transect portions of the Edwards Aquifer, a major water source serving millions of Texans.

Why is this important

The Edwards Aquifer supplies drinking water to the San Antonio region and supports endangered species habitats, making its management crucial for both human consumption and environmental protection. ASR projects store excess water underground during wet periods for withdrawal during droughts, but injecting water into sensitive aquifers raises concerns about contamination and ecological impacts. Clear regulatory authority over these projects protects the aquifer's long-term viability while potentially enabling beneficial water storage strategies.

Potential points of contention

  • Water quality concerns: Injection of stored water into the Edwards Aquifer may risk contaminating a critical drinking water source if storage water quality or injection procedures are inadequate
  • Environmental protection vs. water management: ASR operations could conflict with protections for endangered species dependent on Edwards Aquifer springs and flows
  • Regulatory scope and enforcement: Unclear whether the bill grants sufficient authority to state agencies to monitor and enforce ASR project standards, or if it inadequately restricts problematic projects

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

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