Relating to the removal of certain proposed reservoir sites from the state water plan.
Impact
The passage of SB2114 would directly affect statutes concerning the state's approach to water management and reservoir planning. By allowing for the removal of long-designated sites that are not advancing towards development, the bill promotes an updated and efficient state water plan that reflects real-time priorities and capacities. This is particularly significant in a state facing ongoing water scarcity issues, ensuring that the water plan is not encumbered by outdated projects that may never come to fruition.
Summary
SB2114 seeks to amend the Texas Water Code regarding the designation and removal of proposed reservoir sites from the state water plan. Specifically, it outlines a new provision under which a site considered as having unique value for reservoir construction will be removed from the state water plan if actual construction has not commenced within fifty years of its initial inclusion. This change aims to manage resources more effectively and adapt to the evolving needs of the state in terms of water infrastructure and environmental concerns.
Contention
Debate surrounding this bill may center on the balance between necessary water infrastructure development and environmental preservation. Some stakeholders might argue that certain potential reservoir sites, even if they have not developed, could still hold ecological importance or serve future needs that are not currently apparent. Additionally, there may be concerns about the implications of removing designated sites on localized water supply strategies and community reliance on such resources.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Water Code
Chapter 16. Provisions Generally Applicable To Water Development
Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.
Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.
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 removal, relocation, alteration, or construction of certain monuments, memorials, or designations located on public property; authorizing a civil penalty.
Relating to an interagency reportable conduct search engine, standards for a person's removal from the employee misconduct registry and eligibility for certification as certain Texas Juvenile Justice Department officers and employees, and the use of certain information by certain state agencies to conduct background checks.
Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.