SRC-MWN H.B. 787 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 787 77R8936 MI-DBy: Gallego (Madla) Natural Resources 5/6/2001 Engrossed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Texas faces a difficult challenge to develop water policies that serve both state and regional interests. The Texas Constitution authorizes the creation of groundwater conservation districts to plan, develop, and regulate the use of water. H.B. 787 creates the Brewster County Groundwater Conservation District, subject to approval at a confirmation election, to manage Brewster County's groundwater resources. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. CREATION. Sets forth provisions for the creation of the Brewster County Groundwater Conservation District (district). SECTION 2. DEFINITION. Defines "district." SECTION 3. BOUNDARIES. Sets forth provisions regarding the boundaries of the district. SECTION 4. FINDING OF BENEFIT. Provides that the creation is created to serve a public use and benefit. SECTION 5. POWERS. Sets forth provisions regarding the powers of the district. SECTION 6. EMINENT DOMAIN; ENTERING PRIVATE PROPERTY. Provides that the district is prohibited from exercising eminent domain or entering private property, with exceptions. SECTION 7. BOARD OF DIRECTORS. Provides that the district is composed of certain persons. SECTION 8. APPOINTMENT AND TERMS OF INITIAL DIRECTORS. Sets forth provisions regarding the appointment and terms of initial directors. SECTION 9. CONFIRMATION ELECTION. Requires the initial board of directors to call and hold an election to confirm establishment of the district. SECTION 10. CHANGE OF DISTRICT NAME. Authorizes the board of directors by resolution to change the name of the district. SECTION 11. FINDINGS RELATED TO PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS. Sets forth provisions regarding the findings of the district and notification to certain persons and entities. SECTION 12. EFFECTIVE DATE. Upon passage or September 1, 2001.