SRC-TJG H.B. 1370 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 1370 78R6311 MI-FBy: Luna (Lucio) Administration 4/29/2003 Engrossed DIGEST AND PURPOSE In recent years, there has been a vast improvement in water treatment desalination technology. There is a necessity for this state to continue to develop and maintain a diversified portfolio of drought-proof water supply technology. H.B. 1370 requires the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to undertake and participate in research, feasibility, and facility planning studies, investigations and surveys, as it considers necessary, to further the development of cost-effective water supplies. This bill also requires TWDB to prepare a biennial progress report on the implementation of seawater desalination activities in the state and submit it to certain persons not later than December 1 of each even-numbered year and to actively pursue federal sources of funding for desalination projects in the state. 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. Sets forth legislative findings relating to the study and implementation of seawater desalination. SECTION 2. Amends Subchapter C, Chapter 16, Water Code, by adding Section 16.060, as follows: Sec. 16.060. DESALINATION STUDIES AND RESEARCH. (a) Requires the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to undertake or participate in research, feasibility and facility planning studies, investigations, and surveys as it considers necessary to further the development of cost-effective water supplies from seawater desalination in the state. (b) Requires TWDB to prepare a biennial progress report on the implementation of seawater desalination activities in the state and submit it to certain persons not later than December 1 of each even-numbered year. Requires the report to include certain information. (c) Requires TWDB to actively pursue federal sources of funding for desalination projects in the state. SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2003.