Relating to the territory of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; authorizing the regulation of certain wells for the production of groundwater.
Impact
The bill delineates the regulatory responsibilities between the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District and the Edwards Aquifer Authority. Specifically, it clarifies that the Edwards Aquifer Authority will govern any wells extracting water from the Edwards Aquifer in the territory. Conversely, the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District will be responsible for managing wells extracting water from other aquifers or those wells in the previously defined territory without directly tapping the Edwards Aquifer. This division of authority is intended to streamline regulatory processes and address groundwater availability sustainably.
Summary
House Bill 3406 is a legislative proposal concerning the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District and the regulation of wells used for groundwater extraction. The bill amends Chapter 8843 of the Special District Local Laws Code to define the territory of the district, which now includes regions that fall within the boundaries of the Edwards Aquifer Authority located in Hays County. This change establishes jurisdictional clarity, particularly regarding which entity oversees wells tapped into specific aquifers within the defined territory.
Contention
Notable points of contention around HB 3406 may arise from the differing interests of stakeholders concerned with groundwater management. There could be concerns over potential conflicts between the water management strategies of local governing bodies and broader environmental protections. Proponents argue that having a clearly defined jurisdiction will enhance water conservation efforts and regulatory efficiency. However, opponents may view the authority granted to the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District as inadequate in addressing the complexities of water resource management across multiple aquifers in Hays County.
Identical
Relating to the territory of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; authorizing the regulation of certain wells for the production of groundwater.
Relating to the boundaries of the single-member districts for and vacancies on the board of directors of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District.
Relating to the effect of a change in the boundaries of the single-member districts from which the members of the board of directors of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District are elected.