88R14357 JRR-D
By: Kacal H.B. No. 4551
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a required water quality permit for construction of a
high-speed rail project.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter B, Chapter 26, Water Code, is amended
by adding Section 26.054 to read as follows:
Sec. 26.054. PERMIT REQUIRED FOR HIGH-SPEED RAIL PROJECT.
(a) In this section, "high-speed rail" has the meaning assigned by
Section 112.201, Transportation Code.
(b) The commission may issue a permit authorizing the
construction and operation of a high-speed rail project only if the
commission determines that the construction and operation will not
adversely impact the quality of drinking water, surface water, or
groundwater in any area of this state.
(c) In addition to any other permit required by law, a
person may not begin construction of a high-speed rail project
without first obtaining a permit issued by the commission under
this section.
(d) The commission shall adopt rules to administer this
section, including rules establishing application procedures and
fees for a permit required by this section.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.