To amend the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to clarify a provision relating to conveyances for aquifer recharge purposes.

United States119th CongressHR-331House of Representatives
Updated: May 14, 2025

Summary

This bill amends the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to clarify and expand the use of existing infrastructure for aquifer recharge purposes. It explicitly permits holders of existing rights-of-way, easements, or permits to use them for aquifer recharge, either directly or on behalf of a State, political subdivision, Indian Tribe, or public entity , without needing additional authorization from the Secretary. A significant new provision requires the holder to submit a 30-day advance notice to the Bureau of Land Management before initiating such aquifer recharge activities. This notice must identify the entities involved, the specific authorization being used, details of the intended use, and a copy of any agreement between the holder and the public entity. The amendment clarifies that this use is not considered an expansion, modification, or substantial deviation of the existing authorization. However, it explicitly states that the Act does not waive the holder's obligation to comply with all applicable Federal laws and Bureau policies . Furthermore, it does not grant authority to construct, modify, or expand any existing infrastructure beyond its current scope.

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Timeline

Latest companion bill action

S-1254: A bill to amend the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to clarify a provision relating to conveyances for aquifer recharge purposes.

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

  1. Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H1969)

  2. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H1969)

    House of Representatives

  3. Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

    House of Representatives

  4. Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

    Senate