By: Martinez H.B. No. 5219
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to an interim study on water resources development in
certain counties.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. In order to engage in a scientific inquiry and
analysis regarding current and projected groundwater production
and to assess the effects of that production on groundwater
conditions, the Executive Administrator of the Texas Water
Development Board shall, for Region M--including Cameron, Hidalgo,
Jim Hogg, Maverick, Starr, Webb, Willacy, and Zapata
Counties--undertake the necessary evaluations.
(1) compile and evaluate current data on groundwater
levels, aquifer characteristics, and groundwater use and
production;
(2) fully assess the effects of current and projected
groundwater production on groundwater conditions;
(3) establish a framework for analyzing state agency data to
enable policymakers and agency leadership to make informed,
real-time decisions regarding water resource management, financial
allocations, and contracting;
(4) develop and implement predictive models to enhance the
allocation of state resources, forecast water supply trends, and
guide policy decisions that support water sustainability;
(5) identify, prevent, and mitigate potential fraudulent
transactions or inefficiencies in financial and contractual
processes associated with water infrastructure, permitting, and
management;
(6) assess and demonstrate the effectiveness of state and
federal funding mechanisms in addressing water management
challenges through advanced data analytics;
(7) conduct a performance review of existing state-funded
water management and conservation programs to determine
cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and impact;
(8) Enhance public access to water resource data and agency
policies by creating standardized, user-friendly reporting
mechanisms, incorporating clear visual representations and
interactive tools for better comprehension.
SECTION 2. Not later than September 1, 2026, the executive
administrator of the Texas Water Development Board shall:
(1) complete the compilation, evaluation, and
assessment of data described by Section 1 of this Act;
(2) prepare a report of the findings of the
compilation, evaluation, and assessment;
(3) submit the report to each standing committee of
the legislature having primary jurisdiction over water
development; and
(4) make copies of the report available to the public.
SECTION 3. This Act expires September 1, 2027.