MD HB1296

Establishes the Managed Aquifer Recharge Pilot Program within the Department of the Environment to test injecting treated reclaimed water (recycled wastewater) into underground aquifers to replenish groundwater supplies

Prohibits groundwater augmentation except through a permit issued under this program, with the Department limited to issuing only one permit during the pilot period

Requires treated reclaimed water to meet strict standards including primary and secondary drinking water contaminant levels, 12-log virus reduction, 10-log Giardia and Cryptosporidium reduction, and removal of hazardous substances without established limits to public health-based levels

Mandates applicants complete hydrogeological investigations, identify all wells within 2 years of water travel time, submit mitigation plans for drinking water risks, install monitoring wells, and conduct tracer studies within 3 months of beginning injections

Takes effect October 1, 2025, with applications accepted from January 2, 2026 to January 3, 2028; permits valid for 5 years with renewal option; the entire Act automatically sunsets on September 30, 2036