Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3397

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

Caption

Relating to water intake requirements for the Lower Colorado River Authority.

Impact

The implications of HB3397 are substantial for water management strategies across Texas, particularly for the LCRA, which oversees water distribution within a critical geographic area. By placing these requirements on municipal water intakes, the bill aims to mitigate water shortage risks by enforcing stricter guidelines. This alignment with historical drought data intends to protect local communities against potential crises by ensuring that water supplies are not drawn from levels that could threaten their availability during drought periods. It underscores the vital relationship between climate conditions and water management in legislative policy.

Summary

House Bill 3397 addresses water intake requirements for the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) by mandating that any municipal water intake structures must be located at or below the lowest water level recorded during historical drought conditions. This requirement seeks to ensure the sustainability of water supplies in Texas, particularly concerning the management of resources during periods of drought—a significant issue for many regions in the state. The bill's provisions are aimed at enhancing water conservation efforts and maintaining adequate water supply levels for municipalities relying on the reservoir systems.

Contention

While the bill's intent is to safeguard water resources, potential points of contention may arise regarding its implementation and impact on local governance. Stakeholders may question how the LCRA will enforce these new location requirements and what measures will be taken to address existing intakes that do not comply. Additionally, there may be concerns from municipalities about the economic implications of relocating water intake structures or altering existing infrastructure. Ensuring adequate public input and maintaining a balance between environmental sustainability and local needs will be crucial as this bill moves forward.

Companion Bills

TX SB580

Identical Relating to water intake requirements for the Lower Colorado River Authority.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5226

Relating to the addition of two new elected members to the board of directors of the Lower Colorado River Authority.

TX SB2374

Relating to the addition of two new elected members to the board of directors of the Lower Colorado River Authority.

TX HB3007

Relating to the authority of the Benbrook Water Authority to issue bonds.

TX SB1305

Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX HB2819

Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB1121

Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX HB3731

Relating to the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District.

TX HB5395

Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District No. 11; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5318

Relating to the creation of the Montgomery County Water Control and Improvement District No. 6; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB4757

Relating to the regulatory authority over certain water bodies.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.