Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.

SB 616 allows specific aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects to operate in a defined area of the Edwards Aquifer in Williamson County east of Interstate 35. It amends water code rules to permit ASR injection wells that transect the aquifer in this location, while maintaining general restrictions on such projects elsewhere. The bill directly affects water management practices for municipal and agricultural entities in Williamson County seeking to store water underground. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality must adopt implementing rules by March 1, 2026, to administer this exception. This policy change specifically modifies permitting for water storage projects in one geographic area without altering broader aquifer protections.