Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3718

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the development, protection, and production of brackish aquifers.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3718 is expected to lead to significant changes in the management of water resources in Texas. By prioritizing the use of brackish aquifers, the bill seeks to alleviate some pressure on traditional freshwater sources by encouraging recycling of wastewater from oil and gas operations. This approach aims to enhance overall water security for agricultural, municipal, and industrial sectors, which are essential for sustaining economic growth in the state.

Summary

House Bill 3718 aims to regulate the development, protection, and production of brackish aquifers within Texas. The bill introduces provisions to streamline the management of brackish water resources, emphasizing the extraction of freshwater through desalination and allowing produced water from hydraulic fracturing to be utilized. The legislation positions the development and production of resources from brackish aquifers as a priority, promoting innovative solutions to address Texas's water scarcity issues.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 3718 appears to reflect a proactive stance towards addressing water resource challenges. Proponents of the bill emphasize its potential for fostering sustainable practices that can help mitigate the impacts of drought conditions faced by Texas. However, concerns were raised by some stakeholders regarding the environmental implications of increased hydraulic fracturing activities, as they worry that prioritizing resource extraction could overshadow long-term sustainability goals.

Contention

The discussion around HB 3718 also highlighted debates over local versus state regulatory control, particularly concerning water management approaches. Some critics argue that while the bill’s intentions are commendable, it may lead to a centralization of authority that could undermine local governance needed to tailor responses based on community-specific water needs. The balance between resource utilization and environmental protection remains a critical point of contention among committee members and stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4419

Relating to the promotion of film and television production in this state, including the eligibility of film or television productions for funding under the major events reimbursement program, the creation of a film events trust fund and a film production tax rebate trust fund, the establishment of virtual film production institutes, and the designation of media production development zones.

TX HB1565

Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.

TX SB28

Relating to financial assistance provided and programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board.

TX SB1745

Relating to the equalization of the rates of production fees charged on certain wells by the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District; authorizing an increase in the rate of the fee.

TX SB1905

Relating to media production development zone recognition.

TX HB4051

Relating to the criteria for media production development zone recognition.

TX SB156

Relating to the regulation and management of the use of groundwater and regulation of groundwater conservation districts.

TX SB2379

Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.

TX HB200

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

TX HB80

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.