Texas House Bill HB1155

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the recovery of attorney's fees and court costs awarded in certain actions involving the unlawful waste or diversion of water.

Impact

By enabling the recovery of attorney's fees and court costs, HB1155 potentially increases the likelihood of legal action being taken against those who abuse water resources. This could result in more litigation surrounding water rights and usage, encouraging compliance with existing water laws. Additionally, the bill specifies that it applies only to actions commenced after the bill's effective date, thus ensuring that ongoing cases will not be impacted by this change. This aspect is crucial for maintaining continuity in legal proceedings that were initiated prior to the enactment of the bill.

Summary

House Bill 1155 aims to amend the Water Code of Texas by enhancing the remedies available to individuals whose properties suffer damage due to unlawful diversion or impounding of water. Under the current framework, individuals can pursue legal action for property damage resulting from flooding caused by such unlawful activities. The proposed changes specifically allow the prevailing party in these lawsuits to recover reasonable attorney's fees and court costs, which may act as a significant incentive for property owners to pursue justice against violators.

Contention

There may be concerns regarding the implications of this bill for both property owners and those engaged in legitimate water diversion activities. Critics could argue that the reduced cost for plaintiffs might lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits aimed at those managing water resources under legal mandates. Moreover, the potential burden on defendants facing claims could be significant, possibly leading to unintended consequences in the management of water resources. The balance between protecting property rights and fostering responsible water management practices will likely be a point of debate among stakeholders.