(a) This chapter and all of its terms and provisions shall be liberally construed to carry out the purposes set forth in this chapter.
(b) Nothing in this chapter affects the meaning of Section 8503.011, formerly Section 222.011, Water Code, and Section 9, Chapter 74, Acts of the 64th Legislature, Regular Session, 1975, as it existed prior to the adoption of the former Chapter 222, Water Code, except where specifically amended.