CA SB1304

Requires the Geologic Energy Management Division and State Water Resources Control Board staff to provide a public comment period and jointly conduct a public hearing if they preliminarily concur that an aquifer exemption proposal may merit consideration by the EPA, with minimum 30 days' public notice.

Mandates that the State Water Resources Control Board staff submit a written report evaluating the exemption proposal's consistency with federal criteria and analyzing all potential conduits, made public at least 60 days before a state board meeting and subject to a 45-day public comment period.

Requires the State Water Resources Control Board to hold a public meeting to review the staff report and determine whether the exemption proposal complies with legal requirements and merits consideration for exemption.

Authorizes the Division to submit the aquifer exemption proposal to the EPA only after receiving state board concurrence.

Approved by Governor September 22, 2024.