Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1615

Filed
3/13/25  
Out of House Committee
4/29/25  
Voted on by House
5/7/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/12/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/14/25  
Governor Action
5/28/25  

Caption

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including a conforming amendment.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1615 is expected to streamline the governance of water and wastewater management by special districts. It will repeal outdated statutes and replace them with updated provisions under the Special District Local Laws Code. This will likely eliminate some inefficiencies in the current operational frameworks and enhance compliance by local authorities to contemporary standards. Moreover, by consolidating regulations, the bill could support better resource management and environmental stewardship, crucial for addressing water-related issues in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 1615 is a legislative measure aimed at revising certain local laws pertaining to water and wastewater special districts within Texas. The essence of the bill is framed as a nonsubstantive revision, which suggests that it primarily seeks to update language, structure, and organization of existing laws without making significant alterations to their substance. This bill includes a conforming amendment which clarifies the operational framework under which these districts function, potentially improving their administrative processes and ensuring more coherent regulatory standards throughout the state.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 1615 appears to be positive, particularly among stakeholders involved in water management and local governance. Proponents argue that it aids in simplifying the legal structure governing special districts, facilitating ease of understanding and implementation. Nonetheless, some skepticism may be found among those concerned about potential unintended consequences of simplifying legal frameworks, which could lead to gaps in enforcement or oversight if not properly managed.

Contention

Despite the general support, there may be points of contention regarding the bill's implications for local autonomy. Some local officials may feel that standardizing regulations could limit their ability to tailor solutions to unique local challenges. The bill, while cleaning up and updating old laws, could also be perceived as diminishing local control in favor of state oversight, igniting debates about the balance between statewide regulation and localized governance.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Water Code

  • Chapter 51. Water Control And Improvement Districts
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX HB4172

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including conforming amendments.

TX HB2692

Relating to the San Antonio River Authority.

TX HB3530

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including a conforming amendment.

TX HB2803

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including conforming amendments.

TX SB1988

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including conforming amendments.