Texas House Bill HB2232

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/19/11
• Introduced: 3/4/11
• Refer: 3/10/11
• Report Pass: 4/13/11

Caption

Relating to the operation, powers, and duties of ship channel districts.

Impact

The implications of HB 2232 are significant for local governance and security administration in ship channel districts. By enabling district boards to manage security zones more effectively and allowing for adjustments based on the needs of specific facilities, the bill seeks to improve administrative efficiency and responsiveness to emerging security challenges. This could lead to enhanced safety measures for facilities within these districts, addressing concerns related to public safety and operational integrity in areas crucial to state commerce.

Summary

House Bill 2232 relates to the operation, powers, and duties of ship channel districts in Texas. This bill amends the Water Code to enhance the management and operational capabilities of ship channel districts, particularly concerning the addition and exclusion of territory and facilities. Key provisions include mechanisms for local boards to petition for the addition of facilities into existing districts or the exclusion of certain territories, allowing for increased flexibility in managing security and operational needs specific to those areas. The bill also modifies the governance structure by specifying the appointment process for board directors based on nominations from facility owners.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2232 may include the potential for disputes over territory inclusion or exclusion, as well as the implications of modifying assessments tied to facilities. Stakeholders, particularly facility owners and local governments, may have differing views on the fairness and practicality of how assessments are allocated and the criteria for determining facility benefits within security zones. The bill's impact on local governance structures and decision-making processes is also likely to spark discussions regarding the balance of authority between state-level mandates and local operational autonomy.