Enrolled Bill Summary

            House Bill 1355 adds a chapter to the Natural Resources Code regarding the proposed Red River Boundary Compact between Texas and Oklahoma. The act contains provisions for adoption of the compact, the full text of the compact, and requirements for negotiation and implementation.

            By the terms of the act, the purpose of the compact is to establish a visible boundary between the two states that would help to quickly solve disputes regarding legal jurisdiction and sovereignty issues. Both states are to agree that the boundary is the uniform line of vegetation along the south bank of the Red River, except for provisions regarding the Lake Texoma area, with the boundary being subject to change as a result of natural erosion, accretion, and avulsion. Land to the north of the boundary is in Oklahoma, and land to the south is in Texas.

            House Bill 1355 provides that the compact takes effect after it is enacted by both states and receives congressional approval. The compact is not binding until enacted, does not bar either state from taking legal action to enforce provisions, does not change the sovereignty rights of federally recognized Indian tribes, and may be amended only in the same manner it was created. The compact does not change the venue for pending litigation, the title to or boundaries of any land, current riparian rights of adjacent landowners, water rights, or enforcement of water rights. Land is subject to taxation by the county and state in which it is located as of January 1 of the taxing year.

            In addition, the act authorizes the land commissioner to negotiate with Oklahoma and in cooperation with the Red River Boundary Commission to resolve differences and to establish procedures for implementation. The land commissioner must report to the governor on the status of negotiations, and the governor must approve the procedures for implementation.