Texas Senate Bill SB1288

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/14/25

Caption

Relating to the redesignation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee as the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee, the abolition of the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund Advisory Committee, and the composition and functions of the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee.

Impact

Through the modifications outlined in SB1288, the reformed advisory committee will assume a pivotal role in advising the board on the overall operation, structure, and function of various water funds. The revisions imply that the state will maintain greater oversight on water-related projects, which may accelerate funding processes and project execution aligned with Texas's water management goals. Such measures are intended to not only improve efficiency but potentially enhance the state's ability to respond to emerging water-related challenges, such as climate change and population growth.

Summary

SB1288 seeks to amend the Water Code of Texas by redesignating the existing State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee to the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee. This change aims to provide a clearer focus on the committee's role in overseeing the state’s water funding strategies and infrastructure projects. Additionally, the bill proposes the abolition of the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund Advisory Committee, which may indicate a shift towards more streamlined management of water resources in the state. This legislative action signifies an ongoing effort to enhance the state’s water supply and infrastructure capabilities.

Contention

While the bill sets forth goals of improving oversight and funding efficiency, critics may raise concerns regarding the abolition of the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund Advisory Committee. Opponents of the bill could argue that this move undermines the distinct focus on infrastructure resiliency, which is vital for addressing future risks related to extreme weather events. Additionally, there may be contention regarding the makeup of the newly established Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee, especially in terms of representation from various stakeholders involved in water management, including environmental groups, urban planners, and local governments. The effectiveness of this legislative change will likely hinge on how well the new committee balances diverse interests to ensure equitable water management across Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

• Chapter 15. Texas Water Assistance Program
  • Section: 431
  • Section: 438
  • Section: 506
  • Section: 540

• Chapter 16. Provisions Generally Applicable To Water Development
  • Section: 451
  • Section: 456

Government Code

• Chapter 2110. State Agency Advisory Committees
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 325. Sunset Law
  • Section: New Section