Texas Senate Bill SB447

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to annual and special meetings of and election procedures for members of boards of directors for water supply or sewer service corporations.

Impact

The bill introduces amendments to the Water Code, defining the processes and requirements for candidacy, notification of application deadlines, and the conduct of elections. These adjustments aim to create a more systematic approach within the framework governing water and sewer service corporations in Texas. The law will only affect elections and meetings occurring 75 days after the effective date of the bill, thereby allowing time for organizations to adjust to the new regulations.

Summary

SB447 relates to the governance of water supply and sewer service corporations, specifically focused on the procedures for annual and special meetings as well as elections for members of boards of directors. The bill aims to streamline the election process for unopposed candidates, allowing boards to declare such candidates elected without the need for a contested election. This change is intended to improve efficiency in the election process while ensuring that eligibility requirements for candidates are clearly defined and adhered to.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB447 include concerns about the lack of competitive elections and the potential implications for transparency and fairness in the electoral process. Critics argue that allowing boards to declare candidates elected without an actual election diminishes democratic engagement among members of these corporations. Stakeholders may fear that this could lead to decreased accountability and less representation within the governing bodies of these essential services.