SRC-MAX C.S.S.B. 1879 75(R)BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research CenterC.S.S.B. 1879 By: Wentworth Intergovernmental Relations 4-10-97 Committee Report (Substituted) DIGEST Currently, Williamson County is included only in the electric service area of the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) while receiving its water services from the Brazos River Authority (BRA). In 1995, a historic agreement was signed by the BRA and LCRA which created the "Alliance" to cooperate on the conservation, planning, and development of regional water resources in Williamson County. This bill would allow LCRA to provide water services within Williamson County. PURPOSE As proposed, C.S.S.B. 1879 allows the Lower Colorado River Authority to provide water services within Williamson County. 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 Article 8280-107, V.T.C.S. (Lower Colorado River Authority Act), by adding Section 27, as follows: Sec. 27. Authorizes the Lower Colorado River Authority (district) to purchase, contract, acquire, own, operate, repair, improve, or extend any facility necessary or convenient to provide water services in Williamson County in cooperation with another special district, a municipality, or another governmental entity. Prohibits the district from providing water services in the watershed of the Brazos River under certain conditions. Authorizes the district to transfer surface water from the district to a place in Williamson County that is outside the watershed of the Colorado River only under certain conditions. SECTION 2. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage. SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE CHANGES SECTION 1. Deletes proposed Section 1 and adds new Section 1. Amends Article 8280-107, V.T.C.S., to set forth the duties of the Lower Colorado River Authority regarding certain water services in Williamson County and the watershed activity of the Brazos River.