Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2572

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

Caption

Relating to the issuance of permits by the Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District for certain water supply projects.

Impact

This bill significantly impacts state water law by establishing explicit guidelines and timeframes for the permitting of groundwater transfer projects. It mandates that once an initial permit is granted, subsequent permits within the same series must be approved or denied within a specified timeframe, enhancing operational predictability for water utility providers. By ensuring that projects can move forward efficiently, SB2572 can potentially aid in managing water resources better within the district, addressing both demand and sustainability concerns related to groundwater extraction.

Summary

Senate Bill 2572 relates to the issuance of permits by the Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District for specific water supply projects. The legislation seeks to clarify the process for permitting water supply projects that involve transferring groundwater from wells within Gonzales County to retail water utilities outside the district. The bill introduces definitions pertinent to water supply projects, such as the 'engineering report' and 'initial permit', establishing a structured approach for these types of projects. This clarity facilitates a more systematic permitting process, which is intended to streamline the approval of necessary water supply operations.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB2572 may arise from concerns about the sustainability of water resources and the long-term environmental impacts of increased groundwater extraction. Some stakeholders may worry that facilitating faster and easier permitting processes could lead to over-extraction or mismanagement of vital groundwater resources. Additionally, local communities might raise concerns about the potential impact on water availability for other uses within the district. The balance between development and conservation remains a critical issue as the bill moves forward in the legislative process.

Companion Bills

TX HB4826

Identical Relating to the issuance of permits by the Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District for certain water supply projects.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1699

Relating to the authority of the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District to impose certain fees.

TX SB1085

Relating to the authority of the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District to impose certain fees.

TX SB1746

Relating to an exemption from the requirement to obtain a permit from a groundwater conservation district for certain temporary water wells.

TX HB1565

Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.

TX SB1056

Relating to the directors and administration of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3.

TX SB2570

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

TX SB2485

Relating to the establishment, administration, and use of the land and water conservation fund.

TX HB1916

Relating to approval of subdivision plats, improvement projects, and certain special districts by certain counties.

TX HB3165

Relating to the establishment, administration, and use of the Texas land and water conservation fund.

TX HB4623

Relating to the consideration of water markets in the regional water planning process.

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