TX
Texas Senate Bill SB397

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB397

Caption

Relating to funding of certain flood-related projects by the Texas Water Development Board and the reporting and administration of certain flood-related projects by the State Soil and Water Conservation Board.

Impact

Key provisions of the bill mandate the creation of a 10-year dam repair and maintenance plan by the State Soil and Water Conservation Board, which must be updated periodically. This structured approach not only outlines the maintenance requirements for flood control dams but also necessitates regular reporting to ensure accountability in resource utilization. The establishment of a state flood plan implementation fund indicates a significant shift toward proactive flood infrastructure management, ensuring better preparedness and response to flood-related emergencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 397, titled 'Relating to funding of certain flood-related projects by the Texas Water Development Board and the reporting and administration of certain flood-related projects by the State Soil and Water Conservation Board', aims to address the pressing need for effective flood management and control in Texas. The bill establishes a framework for the allocation of funds specifically earmarked for flood control and dam repair projects, thereby impacting state laws around water resources significantly. By introducing a special fund outside of the general revenue fund—specifically for implementing the state flood plan—the bill ensures that flood management receives dedicated financial resources.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support due to its potential to enhance flood management capabilities, some stakeholders have raised concerns regarding prioritization and allocation processes. Specifically, the requirement for a comprehensive committee to oversee the fund's operations may lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies. Additionally, there are questions regarding how the fund will address the diverse needs across both urban and rural areas, with emphasis placed on equity in resource distribution and project implementation. As the advisory committee will have significant influence over fund usage, debates continue on ensuring that all voices, especially from affected communities, are adequately represented.

Companion Bills

TX SJR28

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the State Flood Plan Implementation Fund to assist in the financing of certain flood-related projects and the transfer to that fund of money from the economic stabilization fund.

TX SJR28

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the State Flood Plan Implementation Fund to assist in the financing of certain flood-related projects and the transfer to that fund of money from the economic stabilization fund.

Similar Bills

TX SB1288

Relating to the redesignation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee as the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee, the abolition of the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund Advisory Committee, and the composition and functions of the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee.

TX HB3316

Relating to the redesignation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee as the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee, the abolition of the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund Advisory Committee, and the composition and functions of the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee.

TX SB66

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TX HB4561

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TX SB7

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TX HB16

Relating to the oversight and financing of certain water infrastructure matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Water Development Board.

TX SB7

Relating to the oversight and financing of certain water infrastructure matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Water Development Board.

TX HB2847

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