Texas House Bill HB3206

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the powers, rights, and duties of the Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2.

Impact

The implications of HB 3206 include a significant easing of regulatory burdens for the Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District, allowing it to take proactive measures against drought and potentially safeguarding public infrastructure. By removing the necessity of obtaining a permit for the irrigation of the levee through overflow water, the bill aims to prevent structural damage from desiccation during periods of insufficient rainfall. This legislative move reflects a responsiveness to the local conditions that the district faces, particularly in relation to water management.

Summary

House Bill 3206 primarily addresses the powers, rights, and duties of the Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 2. It enables the district to use water that overflows from Brooks Lake into a designated ditch for irrigation purposes. The bill specifies that this use does not require a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which streamlines the process for managing water levels necessary for maintaining the structural integrity of the levees in the area.

Contention

While the bill presents benefits regarding immediate water management needs, it may also raise concerns regarding environmental regulation adherence. The removal of the permit requirement can be viewed in two lights: proponents argue that it will facilitate necessary maintenance of critical infrastructure, while opponents might worry about the oversight and potential environmental impacts of utilizing local water resources without the usual regulatory processes. Stakeholders in the region may need to engage in ongoing discussions about the sustainability and environmental stewardship associated with such legislative changes.