Texas House Bill HB1664

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/4/09
• Voted on by House: 5/18/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to an exemption for groundwater used for certain purposes from production fees assessed by the Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District.

Impact

By exempting groundwater utilized for firefighting from production fees, HB1664 seeks to alleviate potential financial burdens on local fire services and emergency responders. The reduced costs associated with accessing this vital resource may enhance their operational capabilities, thereby boosting community safety. This legislative action reflects a broader recognition of the importance of firefighting efforts and the need for adequate resources during emergencies.

Summary

House Bill 1664 addresses groundwater production fees, specifically aiming to provide an exemption for groundwater used in firefighting operations. This bill is set to amend the Special District Local Laws Code and adds a new subsection that requires the Upper Trinity Groundwater Conservation District to exempt certain groundwater uses from production fees. The intended beneficiaries of this exemption include emergency services districts and fire departments, which are essential in managing firefighting efforts in their communities.

Contention

While the bill focuses on providing support for emergency services, there may be some contention regarding the implications for groundwater management and conservation. Opponents may raise concerns about the potential impacts on the groundwater conservation efforts, questioning whether exempting fees could inadvertently encourage less responsible usage of groundwater resources. Proponents argue that the measure is necessary and justified, considering the primary purpose of the groundwater will be to protect lives during emergencies.