SRC-TNM S.B. 1175 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1175 By: Whitmire Natural Resources 4-7-97 As Filed DIGEST Currently, municipality utility districts (MUDs) created under Chapter 54, Water Code, are represented by elected boards of directors. One issue raised by qualified voters within MUDs is dissatisfaction with the performance of the MUD board of directors. Because voters do not supervise their MUD's daily operations, there is little chance for voters to persuade MUD board directors to improve the efficiency of their management of the MUD, with the exception of voting in the next regularly scheduled MUD board election. Some MUD residents and businesses have stated that by having the option of a recall election available, they would have an opportunity to vote to remove and replace a director before the next regular election. S.B. 1175 outlines provisions regarding recall elections to remove a member of the board of directors of a municipal utility district. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1175 outlines provisions regarding recall elections to remove a member of the board of directors of a municipal utility district. 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 54C, Water Code, by adding Section 54.103, as follows: Sec. 54.103. RECALL ELECTION PROCEDURES. Authorizes the qualified voters of a municipal utility district (MUD), in an election held for the purpose, to recall a board member as provided by this section. Provides that a recall election is initiated by filing a recall petition with the general manager of the MUD or attorney for the MUD. Sets forth requirements and outlines provisions regarding recall election procedures. SECTION 2. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.