FRESHER Act of 2025

The bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to eliminate an existing exemption for stormwater discharges from oil and gas operations, thereby subjecting them to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements. This change aims to strengthen environmental regulations by requiring permits for runoff that may contain pollutants from these activities. Additionally, the legislation mandates the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a comprehensive study on stormwater impacts in areas potentially contaminated by runoff from oil or gas operations. This study will analyze measurable contamination, assess groundwater resources, and evaluate the susceptibility of aquifers to pollution. A detailed report on these findings must be submitted to Congress within one year, providing critical data for future policy decisions on water resource protection.