SRC-JRN H.B. 1154 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 1154 By: Hightower (Nixon) Natural Resources 4-23-97 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, there is no requirement that the public be notified of the request of a political subdivision seeking funding from the Texas Water Development Board (board). Public utility users are indirectly responsible for the repayment of borrowed funds from the board. This bill requires political subdivisions seeking funds from the board to make a request for funding in a public meeting. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 1154 requires political subdivisions seeking funds from the Texas Water Development Board to make a request for funding in a public meeting. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 17E, Water Code, by adding Section 17.1765, as follows: Sec. 17.1765. CERTIFICATION OF APPLICATION. Requires a political subdivision to certify to the Texas Water Development Board (board) that the application for financial assistance filed with the board was approved in an open meeting, before the board is authorized to purchase bonds or other obligations issued by a political subdivision. SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 1997. Makes application of this Act prospective. SECTION 3. Emergency clause.