Texas House Bill HB4809

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the North Texas Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds.

Impact

The creation of the North Texas Groundwater Conservation District would significantly impact water management practices in the defined counties. The district would be empowered to enforce metering and reporting obligations concerning groundwater withdrawals, ensuring that sustainable practices are adopted. Additionally, it would establish a fee structure that would limit the rates charged for groundwater use, specifically for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes, thus balancing both economic interests and conservation efforts.

Summary

House Bill 4809 aims to establish the North Texas Groundwater Conservation District, specifically serving the counties of Denton, Collin, and Cooke. This new district would have the authority to issue bonds and impose production fees to facilitate the collection and management of groundwater resources. The bill is designed to enhance the conservation of groundwater while providing a structured approach to regulate its use, aligning with the requirements outlined in the Texas Constitution under Section 59, Article XVI.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB4809 concerns the implications of establishing a new regulatory body over groundwater resources. While supporters argue that the bill provides necessary oversight to protect against over-extraction and promotes responsible usage, critics may raise concerns over the potential for increased regulatory burden and its impact on local water users. The prohibition against imposing taxes on the district ensures that it relies solely on fees for revenue, an aspect that emphasizes the focus on self-sustainability within groundwater management.