SRC-EPT S.B. 743 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 743 By: Lucio Natural Resources 4/1/2003 As Filed 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. As proposed, S.B. 743 requires the Texas Water Development Board to undertake and participate in research, feasibility, and facility planning studies, investigations and surveys, as it considers necessary, to further the development of costeffective water supplies. 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. LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS: Sets forth legislative findings relating to the study and implementation of water desalination. SECTION 2. WATER DESALINATION: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, REPORT, AND FUNDING. (a) 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 from desalination in this state. (b) Requires TWDB to prepare and submit a progress report to certain state officials by January 1, 2004. Requires the report to include certain information. (c) Requires TWDB to actively pursue federal sourceS of funding for desalination projects in this state. SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2003.