Texas House Bill HB2716

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a study by the Department of Agriculture of the transfer of water from the Mississippi River.

Impact

The findings from this study are expected to provide lawmakers with essential data that could influence future legislation surrounding water management in Texas. Additionally, the bill stipulates collaboration with various state and federal agencies like the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the United States Army Corps of Engineers. This cooperation is vital to ensure that all potential impacts—environmental and regulatory—are thoroughly evaluated before embarking on any large-scale water transfer project.

Summary

House Bill 2716 mandates a comprehensive study by the Texas Department of Agriculture regarding the feasibility and implications of transferring water from the Mississippi River to Texas via an underground aqueduct or covered canal. This bill highlights the growing concern over water resources in Texas, urging the state to explore alternative sources to address its water needs. The study will assess not only the technical feasibility but also the associated costs and benefits of such a significant infrastructural project.

Contention

While the bill is a step towards addressing Texas's water scarcity issues, there may be concerns regarding environmental impacts and the legality of transferring such significant quantities of water from another state. Stakeholders, including environmental groups and residents along the Mississippi River, may voice apprehensions about the ecological consequences. Furthermore, the bill outlines that funding for the study may come from grants or private donations, raising questions about potential influence from private entities in public water policy decisions.