Texas Senate Bill SB1583

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the sources of supply of water for certain municipally owned water utilities.

Impact

The impact of SB 1583 on state laws focuses on increasing the accountability and resource management of large municipal water utilities. Implementing a requirement for multiple water sources will potentially lead to improved emergency preparedness and response strategies in the face of natural disasters, droughts, or other supply disruptions. Utilities that currently do not meet this standard will be required to develop or acquire alternative sources before a specified deadline to comply with the provisions of the bill. This requirement reflects a proactive approach to water management in Texas’s growing population centers.

Summary

Senate Bill 1583 pertains to the requirements for municipally owned water utilities in Texas, specifically mandating that utilities serving municipalities with populations exceeding 500,000 must have at least two sources of water supply. This change aims to enhance the sustainability and reliability of water services provided by these utilities, acknowledging the increasing demand for water resources in larger urban areas. By ensuring multiple sources, the bill intends to mitigate potential service disruptions stemming from reliance on a single water source.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding SB 1583 may arise regarding the financial implications for municipalities required to invest in establishing or securing additional water supply sources. Critics may argue that the burden of compliance could lead to increased utility rates for consumers, complicating the affordability of water services. Additionally, there may be discussions about the feasibility and logistics of acquiring multiple water sources, particularly in areas where water scarcity is a concern, raising questions about the bill's practicality and the expected timeline for compliance.