Texas Senate Bill SB737

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/16/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/28/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/30/11
• Refer: 2/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/12/11
• Report Pass: 3/28/11
• Voted on by House: 4/14/11
• Engrossed: 3/30/11
• Governor Action: 4/29/11
• Refer: 4/4/11
• Report Pass: 4/7/11
• Enrolled: 4/18/11
• Passed: 4/29/11

Caption

Relating to the management of groundwater production by groundwater conservation districts.

Impact

The implications of SB737 are significant for state laws concerning natural resource management, especially in relation to agriculture and environmental protection. By formalizing the process for managing groundwater and including provisions for forecasting and monitoring usage, the bill seeks to mitigate issues associated with over-extraction and depletion of groundwater sources. The requirement for districts to submit management plans to the executive administrator further consolidates oversight and aims to promote better coordination among water management entities across the state.

Summary

SB737 focuses on the management of groundwater production by groundwater conservation districts in Texas. The bill amends several sections of the Water Code to ensure that groundwater resources are managed effectively and sustainably. It establishes criteria regarding the 'modeled available groundwater' and mandates districts to determine the permissible water production levels based on predefined standards and goals for groundwater sustainability. Furthermore, the bill outlines specific procedures and considerations for issuing permits for groundwater usage, which aim to balance current and projected demand with the ecological integrity of groundwater supplies.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its forward-looking approach to groundwater management, notable points of contention have emerged during discussions. Advocates for agricultural interests worry about the potential limitations on groundwater access that could adversely affect farming operations, particularly in areas reliant on groundwater for irrigation. Additionally, environmental groups have raised concerns regarding the balance between permitting processes and natural resource conservation, emphasizing the need for stringent sustainability criteria to protect vital ecosystems reliant on groundwater recharge.