Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5397

Filed

4/20/23

Out of House Committee

5/8/23

Voted on by House

5/12/23

Out of Senate Committee

5/19/23

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the name, powers, and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District.

Impact

The proposed changes will primarily impact the governance of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District by clarifying its tax authority and obligations regarding bond repayments. By validating prior governmental acts, the bill retroactively affirms all decisions made by the district prior to its enactment, thus providing a necessary legal foundation for its ongoing operations. This legalization of prior acts is crucial for maintaining continuity and trust in the district's management.

Summary

House Bill 5397 focuses on updating the name, powers, and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District, transforming it into the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 51. The bill repeals several outdated provisions of the Special District Local Laws Code and establishes a clearer framework for the district's governance. The main goal of this bill is to streamline district operations and ensure consistency in its authority and financial responsibilities under current state laws.

Sentiment

General sentiment towards HB 5397 appears supportive, particularly among members of the Local Government and Land & Resource Management committees. It is appreciated for its role in simplifying the legal framework surrounding the district, which in turn enhances operational efficiency. However, as with many legislative changes concerning municipal governance, there may be stakeholders who are concerned about the implications of consolidating authority within a restructured municipal utility district.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the specific changes in tax authority and the removal of certain provisions, which could raise questions about taxpayer accountability and district financial management. Stakeholders may debate whether the bill adequately addresses the needs and concerns of local constituents or if it leans too heavily towards centralizing power within the district's administration. The tracking of financial obligations through ad valorem taxes will also be a point worth monitoring to ensure that the district's financial practices remain transparent and effective.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

Chapter 8221. Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 51
- Section: 001
- Section: 202
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section
- Section: 202
- Section: New Section
- Section: 001
- Section: 202
- Section: 003

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4779

Relating to the powers and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds.

TX HB1932

Relating to the powers and duties of the Williamson-Liberty Hill Municipal Utility District.

TX HB5412

Relating to the powers and duties of the Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 3.

TX HB5413

Relating to the powers and duties of the Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 2.

TX HB5344

Relating to the eligibility of certain retired firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical services providers to purchase continued health benefits coverage; the creation of certain special purpose districts and the name, powers, and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB4698

Relating to the powers and duties of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 28; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose a tax.

TX HB4697

Relating to the powers and duties of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 29; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose a tax.

TX HB4699

Relating to the powers and duties of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 21; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose a tax.

TX SB704

Relating to the powers and duties of the Brazoria County Municipal Utility District No. 35; providing authority to impose a tax or fee and issue bonds.

TX SB703

Relating to the powers and duties of the Brazoria County Municipal Utility District No. 39; providing authority to impose a tax or fee and issue bonds.