Texas House Bill HB776

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the McMullen Groundwater Conservation District; providing for the imposition of and limiting the rate at which the district may impose an ad valorem tax.

Impact

The bill stipulates that the maximum ad valorem tax rate that the McMullen Groundwater Conservation District may impose is five cents per $100 valuation of taxable property within the district. This limitation aims to ensure that the financial burden on property owners remains manageable while allowing the district to secure sufficient funding for its conservation initiatives. The act ensures financial transparency and sets clear regulations for tax collection and use of funds for groundwater projects.

Summary

House Bill 776 relates to the McMullen Groundwater Conservation District, providing for the imposition and limitations on the rate of ad valorem taxes that the district may impose. This bill establishes the governance structure of the McMullen Groundwater Conservation District, which serves to manage and conserve groundwater resources for public benefit as outlined in Section 59, Article XVI of the Texas Constitution. The district will have defined boundaries coextensive with McMullen County and will be governed by a board of five directors elected from commissioners precincts.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on regulating groundwater conservation and establishing a governance structure, issues around the imposition of taxes may lead to debates among local stakeholders. Property owners could express concerns over the tax rate, as even a modest tax might impact their financial responsibilities. Consequently, the fiscal implications of this bill could be a focal point for future discussions, particularly concerning the balance between effective groundwater management and financial impacts on landowners.