Relating to rules and reports related to brackish groundwater production zones.

HB 4896 requires Texas water agencies to submit biennial reports on brackish groundwater desalination projects to state leadership, detailing progress, challenges, and funding needs. It establishes specific criteria for designating "brackish groundwater production zones," mandating salt content under 1,000 mg/L, natural separation from other aquifers, and exclusion of protected areas like the Edwards Aquifer. The bill also directs agencies to evaluate the state's role in supporting large-scale desalination development. This directly affects water providers and regions planning to use brackish groundwater to reduce fresh water consumption.