Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1883

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

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, HB1883 will enhance the capabilities of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District to regulate groundwater use by allowing for the imposition of fees. This change could lead to more robust financial support for water conservation projects and other initiatives aimed at mitigating subsidence risks. Furthermore, the new regulations regarding permit issuance and compliance monitoring could improve the safety and efficiency of groundwater extraction processes, benefitting local communities by ensuring access to necessary water resources while protecting the environment.

Summary

House Bill 1883 seeks to amend regulations related to the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District, specifically granting authority to impose certain fees associated with groundwater withdrawals. The bill introduces improved oversight for groundwater management, crucial in an area experiencing significant water-related challenges, particularly subsidence caused by the over-extraction of groundwater resources. This legislation aims to promote more sustainable water usage practices within the district, aligning regulatory practices with evolving environmental needs and local governance requirements.

Contention

While many stakeholders acknowledge the need for improved water regulation, concerns remain regarding the potential financial implications of the new fee structure. Some critics argue that imposing fees on groundwater withdrawals could disproportionately affect local residents and businesses reliant on groundwater resources. Additionally, questions have been raised about the effectiveness of the permit process and whether it will truly lead to sustainable water management or merely create additional bureaucratic hurdles that slow down necessary actions for managing water resources more efficiently in the Harris-Galveston area.

Companion Bills

TX SB1031

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

Previously Filed As

TX HB3820

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

TX SB2570

Relating to the creation of the Webb County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB5401

Relating to the creation of the Webb County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB5282

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB2449

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB5386

Relating to the creation of the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 589; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2604

Relating to the creation of the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 589; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5353

Relating to the creation of the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 594; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2599

Relating to the creation of the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 594; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5403

Relating to the creation of the Manvel Sports Facilities District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

CA AB1757

California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006: climate goal: natural and working lands.

CA SB193

Monterey County Water Resources Agency: Lake Nacimiento and Lake San Antonio: white bass.

TX HB836

Relating to the development of brackish groundwater.

CA SB963

Water replenishment districts.

TX SB1392

Relating to groundwater conservation districts.

CA AB1044

Tule East Groundwater Sustainability Agency Act.

CA AB568

Tule East Groundwater Sustainability Agency Act.

AZ SB1041

Groundwater savings certificate; assured water