Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'permitting exemptions'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- from that jurisdiction, whether it's in the city or elsewhere, a building permit.
- They won't let you do anything until you get the permit, right?
- And then once you get your building permit, you start the building process.
- In the plans and permitting process, I have heard horror stories about...
- a 45-day shot clock for building permits.
Keywords:
housing affordability, Texas population growth, regulatory burdens, development processes, land use, supply shortage, collaboration, testimony, legislative measures
Summary:
The Committee on Land and Resource Management convened to address pressing issues surrounding housing affordability in Texas. Central to the discussions was the testimony of various stakeholders, including housing developers, local officials, and advocates who highlighted an acute shortage of over 300,000 homes due to rapid population growth. The committee explored legislative measures aimed at reducing regulatory burdens that contribute significantly to housing costs, particularly related to the development and construction processes. A theme of collaboration with local governments and state agencies was a pivotal point, emphasizing the need for an organized approach to address housing supply while balancing local infrastructural concerns.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Bingo hall permit requests would increase, and it is my belief these locations would eventually become
- Higher education entities are currently exempted.
- from these provisions in the same way that public schools and institutions of higher education are exempt
- Exempted in the same way that public schools and institutions
Keywords:
gambling, criminal offenses, penalties, defense, electronic devices, tobacco advertising, youth protection, public health, criminal offense, retailer regulation, e-cigarettes, nicotine products, health, public safety, regulation, e-cigarettes, advertising restrictions, public health, youth protection, health and safety
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs featured intense discussions centered around the regulation of tobacco and e-cigarette products, with a particular focus on protecting minors from harmful marketing practices. Senators presented various bills addressing the marketing of these products, which included SB1313, SB1314, and SB1316. Senator Cook laid out SB1313, aimed at prohibiting deceptive marketing techniques that entice minors, alongside testimony from concerned parents advocating for stronger regulations against smoke shops near schools. The committee also examined the App Store Accountability Act, led by Senator Paxson, which aims to ensure age verification for app downloads and hold app stores accountable for protecting minors online. Public testimony played a crucial role in the discussion, with parents and experts weighing in on the necessity of stringent regulations to safeguard youth from exploitation by marketers of addictive products.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs (Part II) Apr 14th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- the rules and hopefully get people's attention regarding the desired future conditions (DFCs) and permitting
- I'm told they've pumped 88 million gallons above their permit, and to date, they haven't paid a dime
Did he over-pump his permit?
- That we need science, and when the science says you permit
- If they hadn't done so, they would have never busted their permit.
Keywords:
groundwater, water utilities, Senate Bill 2661, penalties, public testimony, aquifer depletion, water conservation, Senate Bill 2662, drought resources
Summary:
During this meeting, the committee had a thorough discussion centered around various Senate Bills primarily related to groundwater management and water utility regulations. Notably, Senate Bill 2661, introduced amendments to enhance penalties for over-pumping water, highlighting the growing concern over depleting aquifers and ensuring compliance with existing water use regulations. Multiple senators voiced their opinions regarding the necessity of tougher penalties and the implications for both water users and conservation methods. Public testimony was heard, with some arguing against the proposed penalties, stating they could unfairly burden farmers and landowners.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- marker="142" data-time="846"> or the applicant for the MUD approached TCEQ with their application permit
- In 2005, the 79th Legislature enacted a statute that allows for the refund of permit fees if permits
- So this bill will help us ensure that if there are permitting issues and such, they won't be undue...
- If we go beyond 45, so we want your money for the building permit.
- You have to do a building permit with a loophole that you
Bills:
HB447, HB897, HB993, HB2673, HB3671, HB3680, HB3897, HB4506, HB4753, HB4812, HB4894, HB5148, HB5437, HB5650, HB5652, HB5654, HB5656, HB5661, HB5665
Keywords:
traffic impact studies, municipal utility district, bonds, road projects, eminent domain, building permits, municipal government, application processing, time limits, local government regulations, cemeteries, municipalities, regulation, health and safety, local governance, municipal utility district, dissolution, local governance, Tarrant County, environmental quality
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The injection storage permits unit is currently staffed to issue permits and to perform monitoring and
- compliance of existing permits.
- Everybody heard that for a public hearing related to a permit.
- permits that we receive, and our ability to take permits to the commission and issue permits that meet
- not held to their permits.
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, water infrastructure, Railroad Commission, Senate Bill 30, Senate Bill 8, budget recommendations, public testimony, water funding, climate change, dedicated revenue stream
Summary:
The meeting included a comprehensive discussion on various upcoming budget recommendations impacting the Railroad Commission and water funding allocations. Significant dialogue focused on Senate Bill 30, which addresses water funding appropriations crucial for developing and maintaining the state's water infrastructure amidst growing demand. Testimonies from various stakeholders emphasized the urgency of addressing water resource issues in Texas, given the state's increasing population and the forthcoming infrastructure needs. Additionally, climate change impacts and funding challenges were heavily underscored by the participants, showcasing a collective concern over future water supply and management.
The committee also reviewed the implications of Senate Bill 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 regarding the creation of new funds and programs for water management and development. Importantly, the potential for a dedicated revenue stream was raised, echoing the sentiment that a historic investment in water infrastructure is critical. The meeting adjourned with plans for a follow-up to further evaluate and confirm budget appropriations, reflecting a strong commitment to tackle Texas's pressing water challenges.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) May 26th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- What the committee substitute to House Bill 4580 will do is grant a property tax exemption to charitable
- ...that was talking about revenue being basically exempt.
- ...a tax exemption to promote agricultural support, youth
- The subsection does not exempt from ad valorem taxation any interest in... including a leasehold or other
- ...to an exemption from taxation under the subsection.
Keywords:
Lake Houston, dredging, maintenance district, flood control, environment, public works, industrial development, county development districts, bonds, economic incentives, sales tax, human trafficking, hotel regulation, occupancy certificate, municipal authority, law enforcement, human trafficking, municipal powers, House Bill 5509, due process
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Property Tax Appraisals Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am
House S/C on Property Tax Appraisals
Transcript Highlights:
And I think, assuming that they aren't exempted from
- I would presume if it's, it may exempt Collin County.
- We have consistently given exemptions; we give Freeport exemptions, and we give Homestead exemptions
- We collect roughly $230 million in property tax and we give $140 million in exemptions.
- homestead exemptions.
Keywords:
appraisal, property value, residential real estate, tax code, appraisal review board, property owners, appraisal, property value, property tax, tax code, appraisal review board, homeowners, appraisal, property value, residential real estate, tax code, property owner rights, property appraisal, taxation, property value
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills related to property tax appraisals and education funding. Notable discussions included House Bill 2786, which proposed annual reappraisals to ensure property values reflect current market conditions. Representative Turner highlighted concerns around inconsistent appraisals that could adversely affect funding for local schools, particularly in Tarrant County. The session also saw testimony from representatives and concerned citizens advocating for the bill, emphasizing the importance of fair and accurate appraisals for maintaining educational funding and taxpayer equity. The committee members discussed the overall impact of property tax policies on local districts and pushed for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Or some other permit or license.
That's right.
- I don't think that, I know for a fact that private schools are not exempt to this issue.
- This amendment simply exempts individual student records.
- also to the proper authorities at the State Board of Educator Certification so they can revoke the permit
Keywords:
Maverick County, recognition, economic development, Texas Senate, community celebration, education savings accounts, SB2, transparency, accountability, amendments, special education, public funds, student discrimination
Summary:
The meeting focused extensively on the amendments and discussions pertaining to SB2, which is aimed at establishing an education savings account program. Various members presented and debated amendments that targeted transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest within the private education sector. Notably, Senator Cook proposed an amendment to require educational service providers to make their budgets public, while Senator Blanco highlighted the need for disclosures relevant to parents of special education and English language learners. The bill saw intense discussion around protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring that the provisions did not segregate or discriminate against students within the program.
Throughout the meeting, the committee demonstrated robust engagement with both proponents and opponents of the bill, examining the implications of the proposed amendments critically. The overall atmosphere suggested a strong desire to balance educational freedom with accountability and oversight. The meeting concluded with calls for diligence in ensuring that public funds are appropriately utilized, setting the stage for future discussions as the bill proceeds through the legislative process.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We now have staff dedicated to environmental permit compliance, which is a team that...
- ...help with permits there.
- For instance, the number of drilling permits I have are down, and the number...
- This lifts the previous administration's freeze on such permits.
- I believe there is a bill that will move the authority to permit the discharge of produced water.
Keywords:
SB786, SB119, SB1186, geothermal injection wells, brine mining, environmental regulations, water management, Texas Railroad Commission, economic growth
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine bridging the gap, focusing on enhancing outreach to support veterans' mental health. Apr 29th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This is a— know, an exempted position for both—from both
- return to office and along with 300,000 other direct care positions exempt from any hiring freeze or
- I can say that the 300,000 positions, which are the direct care positions, are exempt from any hiring
- Just for clarification, the 300,000 positions in the VA are positions that are exempt from any hiring
So they're exempted from the hiring freeze?
Keywords:
veterans, mental health, suicide prevention, Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Grant Program, HOPE Act, BRAVE Act, Every State Counts for Vets Mental Health Act, advocacy, legislation, mental health resources
Summary:
The committee meeting focused primarily on the critical issues surrounding veterans' mental health and suicide prevention. Discussions centered on the reauthorization of essential programs aimed at providing non-clinical support services to veterans, particularly the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. Senators emphasized the urgent need for adequate mental health resources as the suicide rate among veterans remains alarmingly high. Key testimonies were provided by various advocates and officials, illustrating both successful implementations of these programs and areas needing improvement.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- 7866">Our state's love of liberty is why Texas settlers have constitutional rights to homestead exemptions
- However, a lot of the timeframes that have been suggested in testimony today are the ones that are permitted
- For example, under current law, Texas permits a hearing or a charge.
- Is the addition of new language that would permit a notice
Keywords:
eviction, landlord rights, tenant rights, justice court, property law, court procedures, chemical dependency, court-ordered treatment, mental health, health care, treatment facility, juvenile justice, criminal justice reform, deep fake, digital impersonation, age verification, private cause of action, explicit content, consumer protection, civil liability
Summary:
The meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee included discussions on critical bills impacting public safety and tenant rights. Representative Garcia-Hernandez presented HB923, which aims to add two public members to the Texas Medical Disclosure Panel, thereby enhancing informed consent for medical procedures. This move sought to enhance transparency and public trust, especially since the panel previously lacked any public representation. The committee also received testimonies both for and against the bill, highlighting the importance of public input in health-related decisions. The bill faced opposition mainly due to concerns about balancing medical expertise with public representation.
Another significant discussion revolved around HB32, which seeks to streamline the eviction process in Texas. While proponents argue that the bill addresses inefficiencies affecting landlords, opponents, including activists and legal experts, expressed concerns that the bill could exacerbate homelessness and undermine tenant rights. They stressed the need for adequate protections and due process for tenants. As the committee moved through multiple bills, the need for careful consideration of both landlord and tenant rights remained a focal point of debate, indicating the complexities surrounding housing legislation in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul Dubois, Assistant Director of Technical Permitting, as a resource witness from the Railroad Commission
- to be permitted under this proposal, and it would allow us
- Our concerns regarding the impacts of Chapter 251's exemption of Class B or water utilities in Texas
- data-time="8100">The River Authority began providing wastewater utility services in 1966 and has five permitted
Keywords:
pipeline, construction, cash bond, county authority, local government, education, funding, school district, teacher support, classroom resources, underground facility, safety, excavation, regulations, utility operators, underground facilities, construction safety, excavation, utilities, marker regulations
Summary:
The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised.
Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...of not permitting them to come and take advantage of
- This individual could be a U.S. citizen or green card holder who is exempt under the bill, yet secretly
- Under U.S. federal immigration law, a U.S. work permit holder is not automatically considered a U.S.
- I urge lawmakers to consider specific exemptions that would allow small business investors, such as my
- I understand there is an exemption for primary residency, but the property must not be within two miles
Keywords:
foreign ownership, real estate, national security, designated countries, Texas property law, lobbying, foreign adversaries, compensation prohibition, transparency, civil penalties, higher education, foreign adversary, research security, trade secrets, academic partnerships, foreign adversaries, government contracts, national security, prohibition, civil penalties
Summary:
The Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety and Veterans Affairs meeting focused on multiple legislative proposals primarily addressing issues related to safety, security, and law enforcement. Chairman Heffner led the committee through discussions on various bills including HB2318, which establishes a statewide Human Trafficking Data Repository, and HB2363, which expands the authority of peace officers to arrest individuals without a warrant outside their jurisdiction. Testimonies from various stakeholders were heard, emphasizing the importance of these measures in combating crime and enhancing public safety in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Licensing & Administrative Procedures May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- People are sitting in buildings, for example, that they're renting, but they can't get all the permits
- for the permits or licenses involving new construction of
- For small businesses, time is money, and every day that a business waits on a permit is a day of lost
- So, I mean, if you can get your permit from the city in 14 days, you're still going to sit there for
- breweries, brew pubs, holders of mixed beverage permits or
Keywords:
permit issuance, regulatory framework, business operations, efficiency, application process, lottery, gambling, internet gaming, mobile application, criminal offenses, lottery regulations, occupational licensing, fraud prevention, criminal background checks, lottery couriers, swimming safety, child protection, licensing, criminal background check, occupational regulation
Summary:
The meeting of the committee primarily focused on discussing various bills, including HB1800, which aims to establish safety standards for swim schools. The bill was introduced by Ms. Garcia, who shared a heart-wrenching personal story about her son, Mitchell, who drowned during a swim program due to inadequate safety protocols. This led to strong public testimony both supporting and opposing the bill, with many witnesses emphasizing the need for stringent regulations to protect children in swim schools. In contrast, some representatives voiced concerns about over-regulating well-established programs that already have safety measures in place.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- you want to say this is relating to the requirement that a person submit an application for the exemption
- Bill 19 stipulates that the chief appraiser of an appraisal district shall grant the property tax exemption
- If a person does not apply for the exemption, the appraiser
- Members, this language allows the chief appraiser to grant a tax exemption.
- The exemption for land used for human burial remains if one
Keywords:
Senate Committee, local government, SB2183, SB2046, committee substitute, legislative measures
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government was characterized by the passage of several significant bills, including SB2183, SB2046, SB434, and others with recommendations for further consideration. Discussions involved voting on committee substitutes and the implications of various legislative measures. Senator Paxton and other members provided insights and moved bills forward with emphatic support, leading to their successful passing out of committee. Importantly, the bills addressed various local government concerns, showcasing the committee's focus on practical legislative solutions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- in certain instances, including for educational purposes, and school districts are using these exemptions
- to the district's legal counsel follow up with confirmation of both the education and scientific exemptions
- Texas children being exposed to obscene material, and Texas school districts hiding behind these exemptions
- I think there were 13 bills filed last session to remove these exemptions, and not one of them made it
- 5133"> It was our organization that led the way in the state of Indiana to repeal the educational exemption
Keywords:
child protection, sexual offenses, visual material, artificial intelligence, criminal penalties, law enforcement, defense against prosecution, obscenity, child protection, law enforcement, judicial officer, SB20, SB1621, child protection, artificial intelligence, sexual exploitation, legislation, deep fakes, criminal justice
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice focused on legislative measures aimed at enhancing the protection of minors against the evolving threats posed by artificial intelligence and technology in the realm of child exploitation. Multiple bills, including SB20 and SB1621, were introduced to address child sexual abuse material (CSAM), particularly concerning AI-generated content and deep fakes. During the session, committee members highlighted the importance of these initiatives, emphasizing that the current legal framework must adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. The discussions emphasized the commitment of the committee members to protect children and the integrity of these legislative efforts. Public testimony brought forth a sense of urgency from both law enforcement and advocacy groups highlighting widespread concerns about the misuse of technology to exploit children.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 10th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I move to suspend the five-day posting rule to permit the Committee on Public Health to hold a public
- with a public institution of higher education to do the water research, that portion of the grant is exempt
HB1109 by Van Deaver, relating to an exemption from
- Permit members to record a vote in the journal on individual amendments included in this motion.
- I move to suspend the five-day posting rule to permit the Committee on Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, appropriations, state budget, mental health funding, education funding, infrastructure improvements, public safety, appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, groundwater, water conservation
Summary:
The committee meeting opened with a recognition of 'Donna Day', celebrating the contributions of the City of Donna to the state, led by various representatives. Significant discussions then shifted towards the budget matters, including the consideration of HB3794 about licensing and regulations concerning Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. Members expressed their support and acknowledged the importance of addressing healthcare provisions within the community. The discussion brought forth various motions aimed at suspending the rules to facilitate the timely deliberation of proposed bills and recommendations.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine constructing the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill, focusing on United States Secretary of Transportation's perspective. Apr 2nd, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Delays take many forms, including permitting, and I'm
- As I said in our call, Secretary, and as the Chair knows, I'm eager to work on bipartisan permitting
- Yet, I haven't seen a great application of that for the last four years in the permitting of a lot of
- By the way, the one thing, though, that my good friend from Rhode Island didn't mention is permitting
But once again, the permitting is an issue.
Keywords:
surface transportation, infrastructure reauthorization, bipartisan collaboration, safety, federal programs, funding challenges, bureaucracy, transportation needs, critical projects, public testimony
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on the development of the next surface transportation reauthorization bill. Discussions centered around key principles aimed at improving the safety and reliability of the transportation network, reforming federal programs for efficiency, and addressing the diverse transportation needs across various states. Members emphasized the importance of bipartisan collaboration to streamline processes, eliminate bureaucratic delays, and ensure timely funding for critical infrastructure projects. There were also notable conversations about specific projects and funding challenges, reflecting the urgency for action and commitment to modernizing America's infrastructure.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We have over 6,300 water-right permits that have been issued.
- Certificate permits have priority dates which indicate the seniority of one right holder over another
- In 2023 and 2024, we issued water rights for two major water supply reservoirs, three reuse permits,
- three new water rights to recharge into the Edwards Aquifer, and over 200 additional permits.
- Separately, we're working on a framework for permitting highly treated produced water.
Keywords:
Texas House, Natural Resources, water management, conservation, legislative proposals, administrative processes
Summary:
During this meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on various legislative proposals impacting water management and conservation in the state. Chairman Harris emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with conservation efforts, noting the urgency of addressing Texas's finite water resources. Several members raised concerns about the administrative processes governing water laws, and a variety of bills were presented, including a definition cleanup bill and modifications to reporting requirements. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders who provided insights on existing issues and proposed solutions to enhance water management in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The TCEQ and the PUC are authorized to permit a public
- to permit an allotment of water under a TCEQ permit or a
- groundwater conservation district permit, it's really hard to get the district judge to shut them off
- "2070"> you is to ratchet back their pumping before you get to that point where they've hit their permit
- amount, but its curtailed permit amount.
Keywords:
water rights, Texas Water Trust, water bank, environmental conservation, water quality, instream flows, aquifer, water injection, Edwards Aquifer, environmental regulation, groundwater, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, water conservation, drought, utility regulation, water use restrictions, Public Utility Commission, groundwater, civil penalties, water conservation
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on multiple bills related to water management and resources in Texas, particularly emphasizing the importance of legislative measures to enhance the conservation and management of groundwater resources. Representative Romero laid out HB4530, which aims to expand the Texas Water Trust to include groundwater rights, enabling voluntary dedication for conservation and addressing the regulatory gaps that currently exist. The bill received support as it seeks to clarify the processes for groundwater donations, thus promoting effective water management strategies across the state.