SRC-MWN S.B. 1326 77(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 1326
By: Truan
Natural Resources
3/16/2001
As Filed


DIGEST AND PURPOSE 

The desalination of brackish water is rapidly becoming an economical source
of municipal water supply, especially in conjunction with electric power
generation. However, moving water from electric power generation facilities
may require interbasin transfer. Furthermore, desalination is currently not
eligible for financial assistance on the same state participation basis as
other water projects. As proposed, S.B. 1326 permits interbasin transfer of
surface water produced by desalination without meeting the requirements
normally required for transfer of surface water or groundwater.
Additionally, it makes desalination projects eligible for funding on the
same participation basis as other water projects. S.B 1326 also requires
the General Land Office and the Parks and Wildlife Department to study
certain issues relating to desalination production. 

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. Amends Section 11.085(v), Water Code, to provide that the
provisions of this section do not apply to a proposed transfer of water
made fresh by desalination for municipal or industrial purposes. 

SECTION 2. Amends Chapter 15C, Water Code, by adding Section 15.117, as
follows: 

Sec. 15.117. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR DESALINATION PROJECTS. Authorizes the
Texas Water Development Board (board) to provide funding for desalination
projects on the same participation basis as other water projects. 

SECTION 3. Requires the General Land Office and the Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department together to conduct studies regarding the disposal of
brine produced from desalination of water for municipal purposes. 

SECTION 4. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2001.