Texas House Bill HCR61

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/15/11
• Refer: 2/18/11
• Refer: 2/28/11
• Report Pass: 4/14/11

Caption

Expressing opposition to federal interference in state management of Texas' water resources.

Impact

The resolution highlights the historical context of water management in Texas, citing the establishment of the Texas Water Development Board over fifty years ago, which was aimed at ensuring sustainable water supplies in response to severe drought conditions. HCR61 stresses that any federal mandates could complicate the processes of securing permits for local water projects, potentially obstructing or rendering unimproved many essential undertakings that support community needs. It further posits that the local and regional entities are better positioned to understand and address the specific water-related requirements of their communities.

Summary

HCR61, introduced by several Texas legislators, is a House Concurrent Resolution expressing opposition to federal interference in the state's management of its water resources. The resolution underscores the effectiveness of Texas’ water planning process, which is characterized by local stakeholder input and local governance. The bill articulates concerns over proposed federal legislation and regulations that the authors argue could undermine state and local prerogatives in water resource management, risking the integrity of systems already tailored to Texas' unique environmental conditions.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention within the discussions surrounding HCR61 pertains to the balance of power and control over water resources. Proponents assert that federal oversight would infringe upon state sovereignty and the established traditions of local governance in Texas. They assert that federal entities may not adequately represent or respond to local water needs, leading to inefficiencies and potential degradation of water management strategies. Critics, although not explicitly noted in the resolution, may argue in favor of some level of federal standardization to address broader, inter-state water issues—highlighting the dichotomy of community versus federal interests in governing such a critical resource.