Texas House Bill HB4570

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to establishing an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.

Impact

The establishment of this advisory board is significant for the management of Texas' water resources, given the increasing concerns regarding water scarcity and the need for sustainable practices. The board’s study is intended to provide insights into how surface and groundwater interact, which is crucial for formulating effective regulations and policies. The findings will be reported to key governmental figures, enhancing legislative oversight and allowing for informed decision-making on future water management policies.

Summary

House Bill 4570 aims to establish the Surface Water and Groundwater Interaction Advisory Board in Texas. This newly formed advisory board will consist of nine members, including representatives from the Texas Water Development Board, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, river authorities, and groundwater conservation districts, as well as academic experts in the field. The overarching goal of the board is to study the interaction between surface water and groundwater, identify associated challenges, and propose mitigation strategies to address these issues.

Contention

There may be points of contention related to the board's authority and the potential for conflicting interests among its members. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about how the board's recommendations could influence existing regulations and the responsibilities of local groundwater conservation districts. Additionally, the ability to address the complex interplay of various water sources raises questions about the adequacy of the board's composition in representing diverse environmental and economic interests across the state.