H.B. 1535 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 1535
By: Cook, Robby
Natural Resources
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

Pursuant to Chapter 36 of the Texas Water Code, export fees may only be
used for the operation of a groundwater conservation district.  These
operation costs generally only include enforcement of the provisions of
Chapter 36 or enforcement of the district's rules.  As a result, districts
may be in a position to collect large amounts in export fees but be
limited in their ability to use the money collected.  H. B. 1535 expands
the purposes for which the fees can be used.    

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or
institution. 

ANALYSIS

H.B. 1535 amends  36.207, Texas Water Code, to add mitigation projects and
other projects intended to benefit residents of the district including
economic development and educational programs related to water use.   

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act
takes effect on September 1, 2003.