Relating to the criminal penalty for violating the Flood Control and Insurance Act.
Impact
The bill amends Section 16.3221(a) of the Water Code to establish that individuals are committing an offense if they violate the stipulations of the Flood Control and Insurance Act or any associated rules or orders. Importantly, the change will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date, ensuring that previous violations will not be subject to the new penalties. This aspect of the bill demonstrates an intention to clarify legal outcomes and provide a consistent approach to enforcement moving forward.
Summary
SB1846 proposes amendments to the existing Water Code, specifically addressing the criminal penalties related to violations of the Flood Control and Insurance Act. The primary aim of the bill is to clearly define the offenses associated with violating the provisions of this Act and impose penalties for such violations. Legislative discussions around this bill highlight a concerted effort to strengthen regulatory frameworks governing flood control in Texas, which is particularly significant given the state's vulnerability to flooding events.
Contention
While the text of the bill does not specifically indicate points of contention, discussions around flood control and insurance often involve concerns regarding property rights, regulatory overreach, and the necessity of strong enforcement mechanisms. Stakeholders may express differing views on whether increased criminal penalties align with appropriate flood management strategies or if they could disproportionately impact certain communities. The bill's passage could spur debates among various interest groups, including environmental, insurance, and property rights advocates, seeking to influence how flood-related issues are managed in the state.
Relating to the designation of fentanyl poisoning for purposes of the death certificate and to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to the designation of fentanyl poisoning or fentanyl toxicity for purposes of the death certificate and to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to certain requirements of protective orders and conditions of release on bond and to the criminal penalties for violating those requirements and conditions.