Bill > SB930

This bill establishes a Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Pilot Program to regulate and evaluate the use of treated reclaimed water for groundwater augmentation in Maryland. The program prohibits groundwater augmentation except under specific circumstances and allows the Department of the Environment to issue only one permit for a demonstration facility. Key provisions include requiring the proposed groundwater augmentation to address a current or anticipated water supply or quality problem within the next 25 years, mandating rigorous water treatment processes that include multiple treatment stages to remove pathogens, contaminants, and hazardous substances, and requiring comprehensive environmental and hydrogeological investigations. The permit applicant must demonstrate extensive technical, environmental, and safety preparations, including identifying potentially affected wells, creating monitoring and mitigation plans, and providing alternative water sources if needed. The pilot program will run from January 2, 2026, to January 3, 2028, with the permit valid for 5 years and potentially renewable. Permit holders must submit annual reports, and the Department of the Environment will report to the Governor and General Assembly on the program's status, scientific results, and recommendations for potential permanent implementation. The legislation is set to automatically expire on September 30, 2036, unless further action is taken.

Education, Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0930?ys=2025RS