Texas Senate Bill SB407

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the presiding officers of the boards of directors of river authorities.

Impact

The passage of SB407 modifies the existing statutes regarding river authority governance, providing the governor with direct control over the leadership of river authority boards. By requiring that the governor appoints a presiding officer for specified river authorities, the bill centralizes authority and decision-making processes, which may affect existing local governance dynamics. This change is particularly relevant for regions that depend on these authorities for water management and planning, as leadership could now align closely with state priorities.

Summary

Senate Bill 407 addresses the governance of river authorities in Texas, specifically focusing on the appointment of presiding officers for the boards of directors of these authorities. The bill amends the Texas Water Code by designating provisions that establish definitions and the role of the presiding officer within river authorities. Key to this legislation is the authority vested in the governor to designate a member to serve as the presiding officer, unless the river authority has an entirely elected board.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB407 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for stronger state control over local water management systems. Proponents argue that a governor-appointed presiding officer can enhance accountability and ensure that regional water management aligns with state policies. However, there may also be concern among local governmental representatives who fear a loss of autonomy in managing their respective water resources.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding SB407 is the potential for conflicts between state governance and local needs. Critics may argue that the increased authority of the governor could undermine the specific water management considerations of individual river basins, which often require localized knowledge and engagement. By shifting leadership away from locally elected representatives, this bill could create tensions about who ultimately controls the water resources and strategies for management in their respective areas.