Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB501

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

Caption

Relating to the disclosure of certain contracts, services, and compensation in personal financial statements filed by public officers and candidates.

Impact

The implementation of SB501 will have significant implications for state laws governing water usage and agricultural practices. By promoting advanced irrigation techniques and incentivizing conservation measures, the bill aims to improve water efficiency in the agricultural sector. Additionally, it establishes frameworks for local governments to develop tailored water management plans, ensuring that communities can address their specific water needs while aligning with state conservation goals.

Summary

SB501, also known as the Water Conservation and Sustainable Agriculture Act, is designed to improve water resource management and promote sustainable agricultural practices within the state. This legislation aims to address ongoing challenges related to water scarcity and the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity. The bill introduces measures that encourage conservation practices among farmers, enhancing efficient water use and safeguarding vital water supplies for both agricultural and community needs.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding SB501 is optimistic, with many stakeholders, including agricultural organizations and environmental advocates, expressing support for the bill. Proponents argue that the legislation represents a critical step towards sustainability and responsible management of natural resources. However, some industry representatives have raised concerns about the potential economic impact of mandatory conservation measures, fearing they may impose financial burdens on farmers.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the balance between state regulations and local autonomy in water management. Some critics highlight that while the goals of SB501 are commendable, the prescribed approaches may not be feasible or suitable for all regions and agricultural practices. They argue that more flexibility should be granted to local entities to design conservation programs that meet the unique challenges presented by their specific environments.

Companion Bills

TX HB501

Identical Relating to personal financial statements filed by public officers and candidates, including the disclosure of certain contracts, agreements, services, and compensation in and the amendment of those statements.

Previously Filed As

TX SB505

Relating to restrictions on lobbyist expenditures from certain political contributions.

TX SB504

Relating to lobbying by former members of the legislature; creating an offense.

TX SB500

Relating to the effect of certain felony convictions of public elected officers.

TX SB503

Relating to the prohibition on lobbying by certain elected officers.

TX SB502

Relating to the content of detailed reports filed by lobbyists and to monetary limits on expenditures by lobbyists.

TX SB14

Relating to the ethics of public officers and related requirements; creating criminal offenses.

TX SJR2

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing one or more amendments to the constitution to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office of federal officials and members of Congress.

TX SB13

Relating to payroll deductions for state and local government employee organizations.

Similar Bills

TX SB1389

Relating to the disclosure on personal financial statements of service retirement annuities received.

TX SB178

Relating to the disclosure on personal financial statements of certain contracts with governmental entities.

TX HB524

Relating to the disclosure on personal financial statements of certain contracts or subcontracts with governmental entities.

TX HB3789

Relating to the disclosure on personal financial statements of certain contracts and paid relationships with governmental entities; amending provisions subject to a criminal penalty.

TX HB1377

Relating to the contents of and recordkeeping requirements relating to personal financial statements filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX SB862

Relating to the contents of personal financial statements filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB1294

Relating to the disclosure on personal financial statements of certain contracts or subcontracts with governmental entities.

TX HB4119

Relating to the disclosure of family members engaged in lobbying activities in personal financial statements filed by public officers and candidates.