Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1268

Filed
2/13/25  
Out of Senate Committee
3/17/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the review and updating by the Texas Water Development Board of guidance principles and rules related to certain plans adopted or approved by the board.

Impact

If enacted, SB1268 will amend sections of the Texas Water Code, emphasizing the importance of updating rules related to water and flood management on a routine basis. By establishing a clear timeline for review, it aims to promote the continuous improvement of strategies in water resource management and flood readiness. This timely revision of rules is crucial as it ensures that the state's responses to water management challenges, including drought or flooding events, remain effective and relevant. Moreover, the exemption of certain rules from the typical four-year review requirement indicates a streamlined approach focused on critical operational guidelines.

Summary

Senate Bill 1268 aims to ensure regular review and updates of guidance principles and rules related to the state water and flood plans by the Texas Water Development Board. The bill mandates that the board collaborate with several state agencies, including the Department of Agriculture and the Parks and Wildlife Department, to establish these principles and conduct reviews every five years. This proactive approach is intended to keep the state's water management strategies aligned with current needs and technological advancements, reflecting public interests comprehensively.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB1268 appears to reflect support for enhanced water resource management practices. Proponents of the bill recognize the necessity of adapting to dynamic environmental conditions and stakeholder needs through updated guidance principles. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the allocation of resources and potential bureaucratic challenges in implementing the reviews and updates effectively. Overall, stakeholders involved in water management seem optimistic about the bill's focus on adaptive governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from stakeholders who feel that the review process could complicate operational efficiency or detract from immediate water management priorities. Additionally, agencies involved might have differing priorities which could lead to debates on the best strategies for updating the guidance principles. Balancing the need for regular updates with the practical implications on funding and regulatory frameworks is likely to be a recurring theme in discussions surrounding SB1268.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

  • Chapter 16. Provisions Generally Applicable To Water Development
    • Section: 051
    • Section: 053
    • Section: 061
    • Section: 062
    • Section: 051
    • Section: 053
    • Section: 061
    • Section: 051
    • Section: 053
    • Section: 061
    • Section: 051
    • Section: 053
    • Section: 061
    • Section: 062

Government Code

  • Chapter 2001. Administrative Procedure
    • Section: 039

Companion Bills

TX HB3628

Similar Relating to the review and updating by the Texas Water Development Board of guidance principles and rules related to certain plans adopted or approved by the board.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3628

Relating to the review and updating by the Texas Water Development Board of guidance principles and rules related to certain plans adopted or approved by the board.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.