Texas Senate Bill SB1500

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the criteria to be used by the Texas Water Development Board in prioritizing applications for funds for the implementation of water supply projects.

Impact

If enacted, SB1500 would significantly influence the management of water resources in Texas. By establishing specific prioritization criteria for funding, the bill would encourage projects that address acute needs for water supply while promoting sustainable practices. This could lead to an increase in investment in water conservation initiatives and enhance the overall efficiency of water use in the state. The legislation aims to ensure that the projects funded are both environmentally sound and economically viable, potentially leading to long-term benefits for Texas's water management.

Summary

SB1500 aims to amend the criteria used by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) for prioritizing funding applications related to water supply projects. The bill focuses on ensuring that projects not only demonstrate a commitment to water conservation but also address immediate water supply needs. It seeks to promote efficiency and environmental safeguards by establishing clear guidelines that projects must meet to receive state funding, such as the requirement for minimal environmental impact and assurances of effective water use.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB1500 appears to be supportive, particularly among environmental advocates and organizations focused on sustainable water management. Supporters argue that it provides a much-needed framework for resource allocation that emphasizes conservation and responsible use of water. However, there may be some contention regarding the sufficiency of the criteria established in the bill, as critics might express concerns over the interpretation and implementation of these guidelines by the TWDB.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise around the bill’s emphasis on criteria that prioritize certain projects over others, particularly those that may not fully align with the outlined requirements. This method of prioritization could potentially lead to disputes regarding the definition of 'significant' water conservation savings or the assessment of project cost-effectiveness. Stakeholders may argue for the inclusion of additional factors in the evaluation process to ensure a more equitable distribution of funding that takes into account various local needs and conditions.