Texas Senate Bill SB2114

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/10/25

Caption

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significant in a state facing ongoing water scarcity issues, ensuring that the water plan is not encumbered by outdated projects that may never come to fruition.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
  • Section: 051
  • Section: New Section