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(The second chamber sponsor is Hinojosa.)
HB 928, if passed, would make a number of changes to the
Water Code as it relates to local preparation for potential drought. There are
three major sections of the bill, each of which will be described in turn.
Section one would modify Section 10.010 of the code in part
by cleaning up some of the language, and by eliminating a task force which was
implemented in 2003). It would also enlarge the responsibilities of the Texas
Commission on Environmental Policy to include assisting with drought
preparedness strategies, monitoring of new technologies, and developing new and
relevant methodologies.
Section two would modify Section 11.1272 of the code and
relates to the updating of contingency plans submitted by wholesale water
suppliers, retail public water suppliers, or irrigation districts. Further
details describe that these plans are to be monitored by TCEQ.
Section three would modify Subchapter C, Chapter 16 of the code by adding a new section (16.0552) which would introduce language regarding best management practices. These practices would be developed as a collaboration between the TCEQ and the Water Conservation Advisory Council.
We recognize that management of water resources, particularly in times of drought, is a legitimate function of the state. That said, there is nothing particularly noteworthy about HB 928 as regards our principles. Eliminating the 2003 task force would be prudent and best practices could make the regime more efficient. On the other hand increasing TCEQ responsibilities could have marginal costs. Ultimately, we find HB 928 to be mostly related to state procedure. We are neutral on the bill.