Bill Caption

Fiscal Notes

Bill Analysis

HB 1016, if passed would modify the Water Code by designating a stream segment, namely Regional Water Planning Area L, as being of unique ecological value. The bill has two main sections, one of which lists the specific geographic components of the various water bodies which constitute Region L, and one which lists the specific ramifications of the designation.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Practically speaking the designation of a stream as being of unique ecological value is mainly a symbolic gesture. As noted in the bill text (Section 3) the only restriction the designation puts in place is a prohibition of government entities from constructing a reservoir. There is explicit language in the bill which protects existing property rights, legal procedures, and infrastructure procedures in place. As the bill only places limited and voluntary restrictions on the state, we see no reason to oppose the bill. There are also no positive effects, and as such we are neutral on HB 1016.