Bill > SB1145

This bill modifies the Texas Water Code to give the Texas Commission (specifically the Railroad Commission) expanded authority to issue permits for land application of water produced from mining and oil and gas extraction operations. Under the new provisions, the commission can issue permits for treated produced water that can be used beneficially, with the requirement that they also establish standards to prevent pollution of surface and subsurface water. The bill includes two sections that make identical changes - one effective until federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) authority is delegated to the Railroad Commission, and another effective after such delegation. The changes will only apply to permit applications filed on or after the bill's effective date (September 1, 2025), meaning existing permit applications will be evaluated under previous rules. By allowing land application of treated produced water, the bill provides a potential avenue for water recycling and beneficial reuse in industries like mining and oil and gas extraction, while maintaining environmental protections through mandated pollution prevention standards.