Texas House Bill HB4791

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/4/09

Caption

Relating to the powers of the North Fort Bend Water Authority.

Impact

A significant aspect of this bill is the authorization for the Authority to initiate legal actions in district court against various entities, including individuals and political subdivisions within its domain. This provision allows the Authority to recover owed fees and enforce its rules, effectively reinforcing its ability to govern and manage water resources more effectively. Furthermore, a key element of the bill is the waiver of governmental immunity, which facilitates the Authority’s capacity to litigate against other governmental entities, enhancing its operational capabilities.

Summary

House Bill 4791 pertains to the North Fort Bend Water Authority, specifically modifying its statutory powers. The bill introduces amendments to the Special District Local Laws Code and the Water Code, asserting that Chapter 36 of the Water Code does not apply to the Authority. This exclusion indicates a shift in regulatory oversight, potentially granting the Authority more autonomy in managing water resources within its jurisdiction.

Contention

Although the bill primarily aims to streamline the Authority’s governance, it raises potential concerns regarding accountability and checks on its powers. Critics might highlight that giving more legal leverage to a regional authority could lead to conflicts with local government operations and citizen rights, particularly if the Authority exercises its new powers aggressively. Thus, while the bill may provide operational benefits for water management, it also poses questions regarding the balance of power between local authorities and state water governance.