Texas House Bill HB1832

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/24/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/5/11
• Voted on by House: 4/15/11
• Refer: 3/3/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/4/11
• Report Pass: 3/22/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/9/11
• Engrossed: 4/15/11
• Governor Action: 5/21/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Report Pass: 5/4/11
• Enrolled: 5/10/11
• Passed: 5/21/11

Caption

Relating to the law governing the Lower Neches Valley Authority; providing authority to issue bonds.

Impact

By enabling the Lower Neches Valley Authority to issue bonds, HB1832 significantly alters state laws regarding local water management agencies, primarily allowing for greater financial autonomy and operational flexibility. The bill's amendments empower the district to engage in a wider range of activities necessary for controlling and distributing stormwater and floodwaters, which is crucial in mitigating flooding risks and managing droughts. It also reinforces the authority's ability to coordinate among local jurisdictions to ensure the equitable use of water resources and adherence to environmental standards.

Summary

HB1832 pertains to the governance of the Lower Neches Valley Authority, which involves the authority's ability to manage water resources, particularly in terms of conservation and flood control within the Neches River basin and the adjoining Neches-Trinity coastal basin. This bill modifies existing legislation to enhance the district's powers by allowing it to issue bonds for funding its activities, thus enabling it to better address local water management needs without imposing taxes or special assessments on its constituents. The intent behind these provisions is to provide robust infrastructure and operational capabilities aimed at effective water conservation and distribution.

Contention

However, the bill has encountered points of contention, particularly concerning the dynamics of local governance versus state authority. While supporters argue that the expanded powers are critical for effective water resource management and reducing flood risks, critics express concerns that such centralization may jeopardize local control over water management decisions. There is a lingering apprehension about the balance of power between the Lower Neches Valley Authority and local communities, particularly regarding the distribution of resources and prioritization of local needs versus broader regional interests.