Relating to the creation of certain regional conservation and reclamation districts.
Impact
The enactment of HB3363 would modify existing water statutes in Texas, allowing for more coordinated and effective management of water resources across regions with large populations. This aligns with contemporary environmental needs by aiming to improve water delivery systems, reduce wastage, and enhance recycling and reuse of water. Moreover, it attempts to foster collaboration between various municipalities, helping to establish a systematic approach to address regional water challenges and infrastructure deficits. This bill is particularly relevant in the context of Texas' ongoing drought issues and growing population.
Summary
House Bill 3363 seeks to establish regional conservation and reclamation districts in Texas specifically within counties that meet certain population criteria. These districts would be primarily focused on enhancing water security, managing wastewater, and addressing economic needs through efficient and technologically advanced water management systems. The bill outlines a structured approach for municipalities and counties to petition for the creation of such districts, significantly centralizing authority under the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Contention
While the bill has strong support for its emphasis on water conservation and infrastructure development, there are concerns regarding the potential centralization of power within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Critics argue that creating regional districts may limit local authority and flexibility in addressing specific community needs, especially in areas that prefer localized control over natural resources management. The balance between efficient state oversight and local governance will likely be a topic of discussion as the bill progresses through the legislative process.
Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts and to notice a person who proposes to sell or convey real property located in any of certain conservation and reclamation districts must provide to a prospective purchaser of that property.
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.
Relating to the creation of the Montgomery County Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
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 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 creation of the Rose City Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.
Relating to the creation of the Greenshores Fresh Water Supply District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Grayson County Municipal Utility District No. 1; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Grayson County Municipal Utility District No. 5; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Grayson County Municipal Utility District No. 2; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.