Relating to the feasibility of creating and maintaining a coastal barrier system.
Impact
The implementation of HB2252 would initiate a joint interim committee responsible for conducting an in-depth analysis regarding the potential benefits of establishing a coastal barrier system. The committee's findings and recommendations are to be submitted by December 1, 2018, informing state legislators on how best to proceed with the coastal barrier project, potentially leading to significant state investments in protective infrastructure. This may pave the way for legislation aimed at advocating long-term safety measures for the communities situated along the Texas coastline.
Summary
House Bill 2252 aims to study the feasibility and desirability of developing a coastal barrier system within Texas. The proposed system would consist of various gates and barriers designed to protect coastal areas, including beaches and ports, from damage caused by storm surges. This bill expresses an awareness of the vulnerabilities faced by Texas' coastal region, particularly in light of frequent and potentially devastating hurricanes. The mixture of environmental and infrastructural concerns highlights the need for a robust strategy to enhance the resilience of coastal communities against natural disasters.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB2252 appears to be generally supportive, particularly from those who recognize the increasing risks posed to coastal environments by climate change and natural events. Lawmakers and environmental advocates may view the bill as a proactive measure intended to safeguard both natural habitats and economic assets in the region. Nonetheless, discussions around the possible implications on local environments and the effectiveness of such barrier systems may surface differing opinions on optimal approaches to coastal protection.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the long-term ecological impact of constructing a coastal barrier system, especially concerning local wildlife and ecosystems that thrive in the coastal environment. Critics could argue that while barriers provide immediate protection, they may inadvertently create separate issues concerning sediment flow and habitat disruption. Thus, stakeholders on all sides of the debate will likely need to be engaged throughout the process as plans progress towards implementation, ensuring both community safety and environmental integrity.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
Relating to the establishment of a task force to analyze the provision of financial assistance from the flood infrastructure fund for the improvement of artificial drainage systems in certain coastal and border regions.
Relating to the establishment of a task force to analyze the provision of financial assistance from the flood infrastructure fund for the improvement of artificial drainage systems in certain coastal and border regions.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the southern border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.