Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1135

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the authority of the General Land Office to undertake coastal erosion studies and projects in conjunction with qualified project partners.

Impact

The passage of SB1135 would have a significant impact on state laws concerning coastal management and environmental protection. Specifically, the GLO would gain expanded authority to undertake projects related to the restoration of beaches, bays, and dunes. The bill would facilitate the construction of necessary protective structures such as jetties and groins, provided they include systems to bypass sediment, ensuring minimal impact on the shoreline ecosystem. This legislative action may lead to increased funding and resources dedicated to coastal protection and recovery efforts.

Summary

SB1135 is an Act aimed at enhancing the authority of the General Land Office (GLO) in Texas to conduct coastal erosion studies and collaborate on projects with qualified partners. The bill outlines a series of amendments to the Natural Resources Code, emphasizing a structured approach to both assessing and mitigating coastal erosion. Key areas of focus include the feasibility and financing of diverse methods to address erosion, the beneficial placement of dredged materials for public beaches and marshes, and storm damage mitigation strategies.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB1135 highlights several points of contention, particularly the balance between infrastructure development and environmental preservation. Proponents argue that diking and other erosion control measures are essential to protect state coastlines from damage caused by storms and rising sea levels. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the ecological impacts of larger infrastructural projects, cautioning against potential harm to marine habitats and local ecosystems. Thus, while the bill aims to bolster coastal defenses, it also necessitates careful consideration of environmental consequences.

Future_implications

If enacted, SB1135 could pave the way for innovative projects that utilize advanced technologies designed to address the challenges of coastal erosion sustainably. By enabling the GLO to collaborate with various stakeholders, including local governments and environmental organizations, the bill proposes a comprehensive strategy to tackle coastal issues. It will be vital to monitor how the assessments and subsequent projects impact both the ecological landscapes and the communities residing along Texas's coastline.

Companion Bills

TX HB2387

Identical Relating to the authority of the General Land Office to undertake coastal erosion studies and projects in conjunction with qualified project partners.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1259

Relating to studies and reports regarding public-private partnerships and funding for certain public projects, including transportation projects.

TX HB5012

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to use certain tax revenue for hotel and convention center projects and other qualified projects.

TX HB3324

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to use certain tax revenue for hotel and convention center projects and other qualified projects.

TX SB2351

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to use certain tax revenue for hotel and convention center projects and other qualified projects.

TX HB615

Relating to authorizing certain projects to be undertaken by economic development corporations.

TX HB4573

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the commissioner of the General Land Office for a wind power facility on coastal public land; authorizing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB1303

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the commissioner of the General Land Office for a wind power facility on coastal public land; authorizing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB4689

Relating to hotel and convention center projects, including the authority of certain municipalities to receive certain tax revenue derived from those projects and to pledge certain tax revenue for the payment of obligations related to those projects.

TX HB1535

Relating to the San Antonio River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering the terms of office of the members of the board of directors of the authority.

TX SB2582

Relating to the San Antonio River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering the terms of office of the members of the board of directors of the authority.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.