Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB443

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

Caption

Relating to the Rayford Road Municipal Utility District.

Impact

The implications of SB443 on state law involve a significant redefinition of the operational framework for municipal utility districts. The amendments allow the district to have broader authority to construct and manage facilities crucial for providing utility services. This is especially important in light of developmental pressures and the growing demand for reliable water and waste management services in urban areas. The ability to enter into long-term contracts and issue bonds without a public election can facilitate quicker responses to infrastructure needs.

Summary

SB443 is an act that pertains to the Rayford Road Municipal Utility District. The bill seeks to amend several sections of the existing legislation governing municipal utility districts in Texas. Notably, it grants the district expanded powers regarding the acquisition of property, the issuance of bonds, and the management of water services and waste disposal within its jurisdiction. These changes aim to enhance the operational capacity of the district while ensuring compliance with state environmental regulations.

Conclusion

Overall, SB443 reflects a growing trend towards empowering local utility districts to manage the complexities of urban utility demands. While it aims to streamline processes and enhance service delivery, it raises essential questions about governance, accountability, and the potential for overreach in local governance. Stakeholders will need to remain vigilant to ensure that the interests of the community are adequately protected in the implementation of this act.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, there are points of contention surrounding SB443. Critics have expressed concerns about the delegation of extensive powers to a municipal utility district without adequate oversight or public input. The ease of bond issuance without the necessity of voter approval could lead to financial burdens for residents if not managed responsibly. Furthermore, stakeholders worry that the district’s enhanced authority may result in conflicts over local governance and environmental quality management, particularly if operations compromise community interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5338

Relating to the Harris County Flood Control District and the transfer to it of the assets, programs, and facilities of the Harris County Toll Road Authority; providing for the appointment of the governing body.

TX HB2900

Relating to the powers, duties, and use of funds of the Trinity Bay Conservation District.

TX HB5396

Relating to the powers and duties of the Stanley Lake Municipal Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees and taxes.

TX SB2619

Relating to the powers and duties of the Stanley Lake Municipal Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees and taxes.

TX HB1535

Relating to the San Antonio River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering the terms of office of the members of the board of directors of the authority.

TX SB2582

Relating to the San Antonio River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering the terms of office of the members of the board of directors of the authority.

TX HB5412

Relating to the powers and duties of the Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 3.

TX HB5413

Relating to the powers and duties of the Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 2.

TX SB2431

Relating to the Harris County Flood Control District; providing for the appointment of the governing body.

TX SB2624

Relating to the Mustang Ridge Municipal Utility District, the Wildwood Municipal Utility District, the Creedmoor Municipal Utility District, and the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 40; granting limited powers of eminent domain.

Similar Bills

TX HB4038

Relating to the system for appraising property for ad valorem tax purposes.

CA SB634

Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency.

TX HB5400

Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2614

Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB492

Relating to the creation and operation of a mental health services district by the Midland County Hospital District of Midland County, Texas, and the Ector County Hospital District.

TX SB1418

Relating to the route designation for the issuance of a permit for the movement of oversize and overweight vehicles in certain counties.

TX HB2803

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