Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1991

Filed
3/8/23  
Out of Senate Committee
4/6/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/20/23  
Out of House Committee
5/1/23  
Voted on by House
5/6/23  
Governor Action
5/19/23  

Caption

Relating to the authorization of disbursements by the board of directors of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority.

Impact

The passage of SB1991 is anticipated to streamline the financial operations of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority by establishing clear guidelines for disbursement approvals. The requirement for at least two directors to authorize disbursements remains, ensuring oversight while allowing for more flexible and timely financial decision-making. This change is expected to facilitate quicker responses to funding needs and enhance overall governance within the authority, aligning practices with current technological capabilities for disbursement processing.

Summary

Senate Bill 1991 addresses the authorization of disbursements by the board of directors of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority. The bill amends existing provisions in the Special District Local Laws Code to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of disbursement processes. It specifically allows the board to determine authorization methods, including electronic means, ensuring a modern and adaptable financial management structure. The legislation fills a previous gap in law regarding disbursement procedures, which had been ambiguous and may have hindered timely financial operations for the authority.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1991 was positive, particularly among the members of the Local Government committee and stakeholders within the North Harris County Regional Water Authority. The bill was supported unanimously during the voting process, indicating a broad consensus on its necessity and utility. The absence of significant opposition suggests that stakeholders recognize the bill's potential to improve operational efficiency and financial clarity within the regional water authority.

Contention

While no notable points of contention arose during the discussions or votes regarding SB1991, the bill did address a critical need for modernization within the financial governance of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority. The emphasis on electronic authorization processes highlights a shift towards adapting to modern technologies, which can sometimes raise concerns about security and oversight. However, the strong support for the bill indicates that these concerns were adequately mitigated through discussions prior to its passage.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

  • Chapter 8888. North Harris County Regional Water Authority
    • Section: 202
    • Section: 202
    • Section: 202
    • Section: 202
    • Section: 202

Companion Bills

TX HB4182

Identical Relating to the authorization of disbursements by the board of directors of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.