Texas Senate Bill SB1596

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/14/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/28/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/9/11
• Voted on by House: 5/23/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to changes in participation in public utility agencies.

Impact

The changes proposed by SB1596 could significantly enhance the scope of local governance over utility operations. By simplifying the process through which public entities can collaborate to form or adjust utility agencies, the bill aims to facilitate better resource management and service delivery. The ability for local governments to easily modify their participation is likely to encourage more comprehensive engagement between agencies and the communities they serve.

Summary

SB1596 addresses modifications in the participation of public entities within public utility agencies in Texas. It amends several sections of the Local Government Code, specifically focusing on the concurrent ordinances that create or reorganize public utility agencies. The bill introduces provisions enabling existing agencies to add or delete public entities from their operations, thereby allowing for more flexible governance and adaptability to changing community needs.

Contention

While the bill seeks to promote efficiency and local control, it may also lead to debates regarding the extent of oversight and community input in decision-making processes. Critics of such legislative changes often express concerns that they may dilute the power of local leaders to manage public services effectively. Additionally, the bill's allowance for changes in participation raises questions about the stability of services provided to constituents, especially if entities withdraw or are removed from such agencies.