Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4808

Filed

Out of House Committee

5/8/09

Voted on by House

5/17/09

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Calhoun County Groundwater Conservation District.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly impact local regulations concerning water management within Calhoun County. By setting up a dedicated groundwater conservation district, the bill aims to ensure responsible use of groundwater resources, which is critical given the challenges of sustainable water supply management. It also provides a legal framework allowing residents to engage actively in the oversight of local water resources, promoting accountability and local governance.

Summary

House Bill 4808 proposes the establishment of the Calhoun County Groundwater Conservation District. The bill outlines the purpose and functions of the district as aimed at groundwater conservation, management, and protection. It systematically defines the governance structure, requiring a board of directors composed of members elected by local residents. The key intent is for the district to regulate groundwater usage which is fundamental in areas facing water scarcity and high demand due to agricultural and industrial activities.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 4808 might be the regulatory authority granted to the new district. Questions could arise regarding potential restrictions on landowners' rights to utilize groundwater and the fees associated with permits for groundwater extraction. Some stakeholders may view these regulations as necessary for conservation, while others might see them as excessive government oversight that hampers personal property rights. The structured electoral process for directing the district's governance could further fuel discussions on transparency and representation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2570

Relating to the creation of the Webb County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB5401

Relating to the creation of the Webb County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose fees.

TX SB156

Relating to the regulation and management of the use of groundwater and regulation of groundwater conservation districts.

TX SB2521

Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts.

TX SB638

Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.

TX HB2900

Relating to the powers, duties, and use of funds of the Trinity Bay Conservation District.

TX HB2815

Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts and to notice a person who proposes to sell or convey real property located in any of certain conservation and reclamation districts must provide to a prospective purchaser of that property.

TX HB3059

Relating to the export fee charged for the transfer of groundwater from a groundwater conservation district.

TX HB5025

Relating to the boundaries of the single-member districts for and vacancies on the board of directors of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District.

TX HB5303

Relating to the creation of the Springs Hill Special Utility District; authorizing a fee; granting the power of eminent domain.