Texas House Bill HB4736

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/23/09

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Red River Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds.

Impact

The establishment of this groundwater conservation district is significant for local water management. It creates a structured governance model to oversee groundwater resources specifically for the identified counties. By assigning regulatory powers to a locally governed board of directors, the bill aims to address regional water scarcity and management issues more effectively. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the imposition of taxes, ensuring that the primary revenue stream for the district comes from the production fees assessed on groundwater use.

Summary

House Bill 4736 proposes the creation of the Red River Groundwater Conservation District, which encompasses areas within Grayson and Fannin Counties. This district is tasked with managing groundwater resources and is granted the authority to establish regulations that support the conservation and sustainable use of these vital resources. The specific provisions mandate the district to assess production fees on groundwater withdrawals, ensuring that the funds collected are used for conservation efforts and other lawful purposes as outlined in the bill.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, there may be challenges and points of contention surrounding the bill. Concerns have been raised regarding the possible impacts on local agricultural practices, especially with the introduction of production fees which could influence the cost of water for farmers and residents. Additionally, the governance structure, which includes a board with representatives appointed by local municipalities and authorities, might raise questions about adequate representation and decision-making processes, especially if certain groups feel underrepresented in discussions about water management.