Texas Senate Bill SB1311

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the office of water and the water advisory committee in the Department of Agriculture.

Impact

The enactment of SB1311 is poised to impact state laws by formalizing the state's commitment to effective water management in agriculture. By establishing an office specifically dedicated to water issues, the state aims to improve coordination and implementation of programs that ensure sustainable water use for agricultural practices. This legislation is designed to address ongoing challenges related to water resources and will likely influence how agricultural operations in Texas utilize water efficiently amid the state’s varying climatic conditions.

Summary

Senate Bill 1311 (SB1311) establishes the Office of Water within the Texas Department of Agriculture to enhance agricultural water management. The bill seeks to support the department's goals related to agricultural water use, acknowledging the importance of water resources in the agricultural sector. Additionally, it mandates the creation of a Water Advisory Committee composed of nine members who represent diverse agricultural interests and regions within the state. This committee is intended to provide expertise and recommendations on issues concerning agricultural water utilization.

Contention

While the bill is generally positioned as a positive step for agricultural sustainability, it may also spark discussions regarding the allocation of resources and regulatory oversight by the Department of Agriculture. Stakeholders in the agricultural community may have differing opinions on the effectiveness of a centralized office and advisory committee versus existing local governance. Concerns may arise regarding how this new structure will interact with current agricultural practices and the local measures that may already be in place to manage water resources effectively.