The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.
Relating to the authority of certain special districts to use operation and maintenance ad valorem tax funds to pay the costs of contracting for or employing peace officers.
Relating to the creation, powers, duties, and financing of the Wise Regional Water District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the information required to be posted by the Texas Water Development Board on the board's Internet website regarding the use of the state water implementation fund for Texas.
Relating to the provision of financial assistance by the Texas Water Development Board for the development of certain projects in economically distressed areas.
Relating to an exemption of the transfer of certain rights in water from certain disclosure requirements applicable to the transfer of certain interests in real property.
Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of the state environmental review process for certain projects eligible for financial assistance from the flood infrastructure fund and the implementation of streamlining procedures based on the results of the study.
Relating to the Angelina and Neches River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.
Relating to the Lower Neches Valley Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.
Relating to the Sabine River Authority of Texas, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.
Relating to the Trinity River Authority of Texas, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.