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HR 331

Thompson, Bruce; recipient of the Cartersville-Bartow County Chamber of Commerce 2024 Chairman's Award; honor life and legacy

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matthew Gambill

HR 331 streamlines aquifer recharge by allowing existing rights-of-way to be used without extra authorization, enhancing water management for states and tribes.

House Read and Adopted
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Bill Summary · HR 331

Summary of HR 331: Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act Amendment

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HR 331
  • Title: To amend the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to clarify a provision relating to conveyances for aquifer recharge purposes.
  • Introduced: January 13, 2025
  • Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice; referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Purpose of the Legislation

The primary aim of HR 331 is to amend the existing Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to provide clearer guidelines regarding the use of existing rights-of-way, easements, permits, or other authorizations for aquifer recharge purposes. This amendment seeks to facilitate the transport and use of water rights for aquifer recharge without requiring additional authorization from the Secretary of the Interior.

Key Provisions

  1. Clarification of Rights:

    • The bill allows holders of existing rights-of-way to use these for aquifer recharge without needing further authorization, provided the use does not expand or modify the existing operation.
    • It specifies that such use shall not be considered an expansion, modification, or substantial deviation from the original authorization.

  2. Notice Requirement:

    • Holders must submit a notice to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) at least 30 days prior to using the existing right-of-way for aquifer recharge. This notice must include:
      • Identification of the entity intending to use the right-of-way.
      • Details of the existing right-of-way or easement being utilized.
      • Information on the intended use and scope for aquifer recharge.
      • A copy of the agreement between the holder and the entity using the right-of-way.

  3. Exemptions and Compliance:

    • The bill waives the obligation for holders to comply with certain federal laws and Bureau policies regarding the use of rights-of-way for aquifer recharge.
    • It provides authority to construct, modify, or expand existing infrastructure related to aquifer recharge.

  4. Technical Amendments:

    • Minor technical amendments are made to ensure consistency in terminology throughout the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act.

Impact of the Legislation

  • Affected Parties:

    • State governments, political subdivisions, Indian Tribes, and public entities that hold rights-of-way or easements for water transport will benefit from the clarified provisions.
    • The legislation aims to streamline processes for aquifer recharge, potentially enhancing water resource management and conservation efforts.

  • Procedural Aspects:

    • The bill was reported favorably by the Committee on Natural Resources and has undergone hearings and amendments before being passed in the House.
    • It is currently awaiting further consideration in the Senate.

Legislative Actions

  • Key Dates:
    • January 13, 2025: Introduced in the House.
    • February 12, 2025: Ordered to be reported (amended) by unanimous consent.
    • April 17, 2025: Reported (amended) by the Committee on Natural Resources.
    • May 13, 2025: Passed in the House by voice vote and sent to the Senate.

Related Bills

  • S 1254: Companion bill in the Senate.

This summary provides an overview of HR 331, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on water resource management and aquifer recharge efforts.

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

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