Texas House Bill HB1643

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 12/17/24

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District over the North Harris County Regional Water Authority.

Impact

If passed, HB 1643 would empower the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District to implement stricter rules and monitoring protocols for the North Harris County Regional Water Authority. This could lead to improved water resource management and potentially limit groundwater extraction, which has been a concern due to its effect on subsidence. The legislative intention is to enhance collaboration between the two entities to ensure sustainable water practices that are crucial for the region's economic growth and environmental health.

Summary

House Bill 1643 seeks to clarify and delineate the authority of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District specifically concerning its regulatory oversight over the North Harris County Regional Water Authority. This bill is introduced in response to the growing challenges related to groundwater management, subsidence issues, and the increasing demand for water resources in the region. The bill aims to strengthen existing regulations and ensure efficient oversight of water management practices to mitigate the risk of subsidence, which can be detrimental to land stability and infrastructure.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, the bill may face opposition from stakeholders who are concerned about the implications of increased regulation on local water providers and consumers. Some may argue that enhanced oversight could lead to higher operational costs for water authorities, which could ultimately translate to increased water rates for residents and businesses. The discussions around this bill are likely to feature debates on the balance between necessary regulation to prevent subsidence and the need for accessible and affordable water supplies in the growing areas of Harris County.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

• Chapter 8801. Harris-galveston Subsidence District
  • Section: 005
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 8888. North Harris County Regional Water Authority
  • Section: 001
  • Section: 005
  • Section: 156
  • Section: 157
  • Section: 165
  • Section: 166