Bill

HB 1232

84(R) - 2015
House Natural Resources
House Natural Resources

Vote Recommendation

Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Eddie Lucio III

Bill Caption

Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board regarding the mapping of groundwater in confined and unconfined aquifers.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 1232, if passed, would authorize the Texas Water Development Board to conduct a study of the aquifers of the state. This study would determine water quantity, quality and salinity, whether the aquifers in question are tributary or non-tributary, the contribution to surface flow, the relationship between aquifers and, the relationship to injection wells and desalination. The report would be required to produce a map and other data effectively clarifying all of the above issues. Before the study is conducted the Board is to determine the minimum rate of water contribution necessary to be included in the study, and an appropriate definition of “suitability” per (a)(5) of this section.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Practically speaking, the study proposed by HB 1232 is a prudent decision, given the water management responsibilities of the state. However, since this is merely a study, has no, fiscal impact, and regards only state agencies, HB 1232 does not affect any of our principles. We are neutral on HB 1232.

Organizations Supporting

Chevron
Clearwater Underground Water Conservation District
Devon Energy
League of Independent Voters of Texas
Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District
Panola County Groundwater Conservation District
Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District
Texas Association of Groundwater Owners and Producers
Texas Cattle Feeders Association
Texas Farm Bureau
Texas Oil and Gas Association
Texas Water Conservation Association
The Nature Conservancy
The Sierra Club