Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2592

Filed
4/3/23  
Out of Senate Committee
4/18/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/24/23  
Out of House Committee
5/2/23  
Voted on by House
5/17/23  
Governor Action
6/2/23  

Caption

Relating to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority, following the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering terms of the board of directors; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

Impact

The enactment of SB 2592 will extend the next review date for the LCRA until 2035, offering a longer period for the authority to implement the recommended changes before any further evaluation occurs. The bill also specifies grounds for the removal of a board member and mandates new training for members, aiming to enhance their understanding of operational laws and issues relevant to their governance duties. This will instill greater responsibility among the board and may lead to improved operational effectiveness within the authority.

Summary

Senate Bill 2592 pertains to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority (LCRA) and follows the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission to enhance accountability and governance practices within the authority. The bill modifies the terms of the board of directors from six years to four years and establishes an appointment process for staggered terms. This change aims to ensure ongoing oversight and consistent renewals of board members, thus preventing any potential stagnation in governance and promoting a more dynamic leadership structure within the LCRA.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 2592 appears largely positive, as it has garnered significant bipartisan support, illustrated by the final vote of 302 yeas to 5 nays during its passage. Many legislators view the bill as a necessary reform that will modernize governance within the LCRA while ensuring public trust and transparency. The changes are seen as a proactive step in refining policies related to water management and resource allocation, which are crucial in a state where water resources are critical to both urban and agricultural stakeholders.

Contention

While the bill received broad support, there were some discussions regarding the adequacy of the proposed four-year term limit compared to the previous six-year term limit for board members. Some advocates for LCRA argued that maintaining the longer terms could provide continuity and depth of knowledge among board members. Nevertheless, the overarching consensus favored the reforms as a means to balance accountability with effective governance.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 325. Sunset Law
    • Section: 025
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 025

Local Government Code

  • Chapter 171. Regulation Of Conflicts Of Interest Of Officers Of Municipalities, Counties, And Certain Other Local Governments
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB1525

Identical Relating to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority, following the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering terms of the board of directors; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

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