Texas Senate Bill SB1382

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of a hospital to drill a water well for the purpose of producing water for use in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.

Impact

The bill introduces specific amendments to the Health and Safety Code, enabling hospitals to drill water wells on their property. This legislative change directly impacts state laws concerning the jurisdiction under which groundwater is regulated. Specifically, it clarifies that while hospitals may gain this new ability, it does not supersede the authority of groundwater conservation districts, which continue to retain their regulatory powers over groundwater production under existing laws. This distinction seeks to harmonize hospital self-sufficiency with environmental conservation efforts in managing groundwater resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 1382 aims to grant hospitals the authority to drill their own water wells for the purpose of ensuring a reliable water supply in cases of emergencies or natural disasters. This legislative proposal addresses critical concerns regarding hospitals' operational readiness and sustainability, especially when their standard sources of water may be compromised. By allowing hospitals to produce their own water, the bill seeks to enhance healthcare facilities' resilience during crisis situations, ensuring that they can continue to function effectively when external resources are unavailable.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB 1382 may stem from balancing the need for hospitals to assure an emergency water supply against the regulations and limitations established to protect groundwater resources. Stakeholders could raise concerns about potential over-extraction of groundwater or environmental impacts, pressing the need for adequate regulations that ensure sustainable practices in this new endeavor. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between hospitals and groundwater districts to maintain a responsible approach to groundwater management.