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.