Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB1947

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/2/09  
Voted on by House
4/15/09  
Out of Senate Committee
5/7/09  
Voted on by Senate
5/21/09  
Governor Action
6/19/09  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/25/09  

Caption

Relating to the election and terms of office of directors of the Guadalupe County Groundwater Conservation District.

Impact

The proposed amendment to the election schedule indicates a strategic effort to align the district’s operations with broader electoral practices within the state. By allowing directors to be elected during a time when more voters are likely to participate, the bill intends to enhance the democratic process within the district. Additionally, repealing certain sections related to previous election practices reinforces the bill's aim to modernize governance structures, ensuring they reflect current needs and practices effectively.

Summary

House Bill 1947 seeks to amend the governance structure of the Guadalupe County Groundwater Conservation District by changing the election and terms of office for its directors. The bill proposes hosting director elections on the uniform election date in November of each odd-numbered year, deviating from the previous practice of holding elections on the first Saturday in May of the second year after the district's establishment. This change aims to synchronize the election cycle with other public elections, thus potentially increasing voter turnout and engagement in local governance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, HB 1947 serves to clarify and update the legal framework governing the Guadalupe County Groundwater Conservation District. If passed, it would facilitate a revised election process intended to strengthen community participation in groundwater management, a critical issue given the region's reliance on its groundwater resources.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 1947 may touch on the implications of changing the election timeline, particularly regarding its impact on local community engagement and representation. Proponents of the bill might argue that aligning with the state's uniform election date could lead to a greater awareness of groundwater conservation issues among constituents, while opponents could express concerns that this shift may diminish the visibility of local elections, potentially weakening community oversight of the water conservation efforts.

Companion Bills

TX SB1637

Identical Relating to the election and terms of office of directors of the Guadalupe County Groundwater Conservation District.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1637

Relating to the election and terms of office of directors of the Guadalupe County Groundwater Conservation District.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.