H.B. 3602 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 3602
By: Bonnen
Natural Resources
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND 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. 3602 creates the Brazoria County
Groundwater Conservation District, subject to approval at a confirmation
election, to manage Brazoria County's groundwater resources. 


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. 3602 creates the Brazoria County Groundwater Conservation District
subject to voter approval at a confirmation election.  The bill provides
that the district is governed by a board of five directors and sets forth
provisions regarding the election, qualifications, and terms of the
directors.  The district is prohibited from imposing a property tax;
exercising the power of eminent domain; acquiring land; issuing or selling
bonds; or purchasing, selling, transporting, or distributing surface water
or groundwater.  This Act is effective September 1, 2003 and expires on
December 31, 2006 if the creation of the district is not confirmed at an
election before that date. 


EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2003