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SB 863

Relating to water withdrawn from the Edwards Aquifer and to the use of certain reclaimed water in an aquifer storage and recovery project.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carrie Isaac and 1 co-sponsor

SB 863 modifies Edwards Aquifer withdrawal rules and authorizes reclaimed water use in underground storage and recovery projects to address Texas water scarcity.

Effective on 9/1/25
#edwardsaquifer(s0068) #specialdistricts&authorities--water&utility(i0755) #utilities--general(i0830)
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Bill Summary · SB 863

Legislative bill overview

SB 863 modifies Texas water law governing withdrawals from the Edwards Aquifer and establishes provisions for using reclaimed water in aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects. The bill became effective September 1, 2025, after receiving gubernatorial approval and has already passed both chambers with amendments.

Why is this important

The Edwards Aquifer is a critical freshwater source for central Texas, supplying roughly 2 million people and supporting significant agricultural and industrial uses. This legislation directly affects how much water can be withdrawn from this stressed aquifer and creates new mechanisms for water conservation through ASR technology, which stores treated reclaimed water underground for future use during droughts or peak demand periods.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural vs. municipal interests: Competing demands between farming operations and growing urban populations for limited aquifer resources
  • Environmental protection: Concerns about adequate environmental flow requirements for springs and ecosystems dependent on the Edwards Aquifer
  • Reclaimed water quality standards: Questions about treatment standards and potential groundwater contamination risks from injecting reclaimed water into ASR systems
  • Implementation costs: Uncertainty about who bears the expense of developing ASR infrastructure and reclaimed water treatment facilities

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

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