BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center H.B. 578
79R12233 SMH-D By: Campbell (Armbrister)
AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Currently, there are no maps detailing the various water pipelines throughout the state. An all-encompassing map that identifies the locations of all existing water pipelines in the state could be used when a community experiencing a water shortage must find additional sources of water. Knowing the location of alternative sources of water is critical in emergency water shortages.
H.B. 578 requires regional planning groups to submit to the Texas Water Development Board a regional water plan that identifies existing major water infrastructure facilities.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 16.053, Water Code, by amending Subsection (e) and adding Subsection (r), as follows:
(e) Adds Subdivision (3)(D) to require each regional water planning group to submit to the Texas Water Development Board (board) a regional water plan that identifies existing major water infrastructure facilities that may be used for interconnections in the event of an emergency shortage of water. Makes nonsubstantive changes.
(r) Provides that information described by Subsection (e)(3)(D) that is included in a regional water plan submitted to the board is excepted from required disclosure under the public information law, Chapter 552 (Public Information), Government Code.
SECTION 2. Makes application of this Act prospective to a regional water plan submitted to the board on or after the effective date of this Act.
SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2005.