Texas House Bill HB3883

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to development regulations for certain unincorporated areas located within the Hill Country Priority Groundwater Management Area; authorizing a fee; authorizing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

This legislation aims to enhance oversight and management of development in sensitive groundwater areas, thereby promoting responsible growth while safeguarding vital water resources. The infrastructure cost recovery fee provisions empower counties to fund infrastructure relevant to new developments efficiently. By mandating public engagement through elections for approving regulatory authority, it ensures that community voices are included in the decision-making process regarding local development patterns.

Summary

House Bill 3883 introduces new development regulations specifically for unincorporated areas within the Hill Country Priority Groundwater Management Area in Texas. The bill authorizes county commissioners courts to adopt various regulations, including reasonable lot size restrictions and requirements for water supply to new developments. Furthermore, it allows counties to impose an infrastructure cost recovery fee on new developments to cover the expenses required for necessary infrastructure improvements, such as water, wastewater, and road facilities.

Contention

One potential area of contention surrounding HB 3883 may involve the balance between regulation and local autonomy. Some stakeholders may argue that while the bill addresses environmental and infrastructural issues, it also centralizes regulatory authority, which could lead to conflicts with local governance and adaptability. Additionally, there may be discussions around the implementation of the infrastructure cost recovery fee, particularly how it may affect affordable housing developments, considering the bill allows for fee waivers under certain conditions.