Texas Senate Bill SB3072

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 5/12/25

Caption

Relating to the term of an easement granted by the Parks and Wildlife Commission to an electric cooperative for certain state land.

Impact

The impact of SB3072 is significant as it alters the existing framework for how easements are granted and managed on state lands. By allowing for perpetual easements, the bill potentially facilitates ongoing infrastructure development necessary for electric cooperatives without the need for periodic renewals. This could enhance the stability and reliability of electric services provided by these cooperatives, especially in rural or underserved areas. However, this also raises questions regarding the long-term implications for state land use and environmental management.

Summary

Senate Bill 3072 addresses the duration of easements granted by the Parks and Wildlife Commission to electric cooperatives for certain state lands. The bill amends the Parks and Wildlife Code by introducing a provision allowing these easements to be granted in perpetuity. This change implies that once an easement is granted under this new provision, it will not have an expiration date, providing electric cooperatives long-term access to the state land for their operations.

Contention

The key point of contention with SB3072 lies in the implications of granting perpetual easements. Critics may argue that perpetual rights could lead to overuse or mismanagement of state resources as electric cooperatives could have indefinite control over these lands. This concern highlights a balance that must be struck between ensuring necessary infrastructure development and protecting state lands from potential degradation due to unrestricted usage. Discussions surrounding this bill are likely to revolve around environmental protections and the rights of local communities versus the needs of energy providers.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Parks And Wildlife Code

• Chapter 11. Parks And Wildlife Department
  • Section: New Section

Utilities Code

• Chapter 161. Electric Cooperative Corporations
  • Section: 002

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section