Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3820

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District over the North Harris County Regional Water Authority.

Impact

The proposed changes may significantly affect how water resources are managed in the region, particularly concerning groundwater reliance and reduction strategies. By exempting the North Harris County Regional Water Authority from certain provisions, the bill could streamline decision-making and financing for water delivery projects. This aligns with ongoing efforts to shift from groundwater dependency to more sustainable sources of water like surface water, which is crucial in managing the region's water supply amidst growing demand and environmental concerns.

Summary

House Bill 3820 addresses the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District concerning the North Harris County Regional Water Authority. This bill amends various sections of the Special District Local Laws Code to clarify and modify the regulatory framework governing water supply and management in Harris and Galveston Counties. One of the critical amendments specifies that the provisions of this chapter do not apply to the North Harris County Regional Water Authority, thereby delineating the authority's regulatory reach and operational independence.

Sentiment

The discussion around HB 3820 suggests a varied sentiment in legislative circles. Supporters of the bill are likely to view it as a necessary step towards improving water management efficiency in the face of subsidence issues affecting the Texas Gulf Coast. However, there might also be concerns among some stakeholders about the sufficiency of oversight in water management practices, with apprehensions regarding maintaining adequate environmental protections while incentivizing infrastructure development.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the bill's implications for regulatory authority and local governance. While the bill aims to provide clearer operational parameters for the North Harris County Regional Water Authority, it can also raise fears about the potential encounters with environmental compliance regulations. Debates may center on achieving the right balance between enabling quick infrastructure responses and ensuring that environmental sustainability measures are not compromised.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

  • Chapter 8801. Harris-galveston Subsidence District
    • Section: 005
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 8888. North Harris County Regional Water Authority
    • Section: 001
    • Section: 005
    • Section: 156
    • Section: 157
    • Section: 165
    • Section: 166
    • Section: 201

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1643

Relating to the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District over the North Harris County Regional Water Authority.

TX SB1031

Relating to the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District; providing authority to impose a fee.

TX HB1883

Relating to the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District; providing authority to impose a fee.

TX HB2654

Relating to the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District to regulate certain water wells.

TX HB2127

Relating to the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District to regulate certain water wells.

TX HB1345

Relating to the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District to regulate certain water wells.

TX HB2418

Relating to the territory, board of directors, and powers of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority.

TX HB3818

Relating to the extension of groundwater reduction target years established by the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District.

TX HB4792

Relating to the powers of the West Harris County Regional Water Authority.

TX SB2536

Relating to the powers of the West Harris County Regional Water Authority.

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