Texas House Bill HB3339

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to requirements for programs of water conservation and water conservation plans.

Impact

The passage of HB 3339 represents a significant amendment to the Texas Water Code, reinforcing the state’s commitment to effective water resource management. Local governments and relevant agencies are now required to implement structured water conservation strategies as a condition for receiving state funding. This change is expected to lead to better allocation of water resources, potentially reducing the strain on water supplies during drought conditions while promoting sustainable use practices among municipalities and other entities.

Summary

House Bill 3339 aims to establish and refine the requirements surrounding water conservation plans and programs within Texas. The bill mandates that any political subdivision or federal agency applying for financial assistance through the Texas Water Development Board must include a comprehensive water conservation plan. This plan must detail strategies for efficient water use, including measurable goals for water savings over both five and ten years, tailored to the local conditions and needs of the respective political subdivisions. By integrating such requirements into the financial assistance applications, the bill seeks to enhance water resource management in the face of Texas' variable climate and increasing water demands.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3339 has generally been positive among environmental advocates and water resource management professionals, who see it as a proactive step toward ensuring the sustainability of water supplies in Texas. However, some critics have raised concerns about the financial burdens that these requirements might impose on smaller municipalities or rural areas that may lack the resources to develop comprehensive conservation plans. The balance between promoting effective water conservation and ensuring equitable access to resources remains a central issue in the conversations surrounding this bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the potential challenges smaller political subdivisions may face in meeting the new requirements without adequate support. Critics point to the need for educational and technical assistance programs to help these entities comply. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of the proposed methods of assessing water usage, as they must be uniformly applied across Texas, which could inadvertently penalize communities with unique water conservation needs. The bill highlights the complexities of aligning state-level mandates with local realities in water management practices.