Environment – Reservoir Augmentation Permit – Establishment

HB 25 establishes a new permit program requiring entities to obtain approval from Maryland's Department of Environment before adding reclaimed water to reservoirs used as drinking water sources. This directly affects water utilities, treatment facilities, and other operators managing reservoirs that supply public drinking water systems. The bill mandates that all reservoir augmentation projects must meet specific water quality standards before water enters both the reservoir and the public distribution system, and requires permit holders to allow department inspections. It also directs certain revenues to fund the program's operation and oversight, creating a formal process for managing this water reuse practice.