BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center C.S.H.B. 2430
79R17863 E By: Puente (Armbrister)
Committee Report (Substituted)
AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Rainwater harvesting is a potentially useful water conservation and reuse technique. In order to complement the state's existing resources, however, standards and guidelines for indoor use of rainwater must be more fully explored − particularly with respect to technical guidance regarding the incorporation of rainwater harvesting in municipal water systems. C.S.H.B. 2430 requires the Texas Water Development Board to establish a Rainwater Harvesting Evaluation Committee dedicated to studying the feasibility of using rainwater as a source of water supply.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. (a) Requires the Texas Water Development Board (board) to establish a Rainwater Harvesting Evaluation Committee (committee) to study the feasibility of using rainwater as a source of water supply.
(b) Provides that the committee is composed of four members who represent certain governmental entities.
(c) Provides that the representative from the board is the presiding officer of the committee.
(d) Authorizes the committee to request the assistance of outside experts or consultants, as necessary.
(e) Requires the committee, not later than December 1, 2006, to provide a report to the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house of representatives. Requires the report provide certain evaluations and recommendations.
SECTION 2. Amends Subchapter C, Chapter 341, Health and Safety Code, by adding Section 341.042, as follows:
Sec. 341.042. STANDARDS FOR HARVESTED RAINWATER. Requires TCEQ to establish recommended standards relating to the domestic use of harvested rainwater, including health and safety standards for treatment and collection methods for harvested rainwater intended for drinking, cooking, or bathing.
SECTION 3. (a) Requires TCEQ, not later than December 1, 2006, to adopt standards as required by Section 341.042, Health and Safety Code, as added by this Act.
(b) Requires TCEQ to coordinate with the committee in developing the recommended standards established and adopted under Section 341.042, Health and Safety Code.
SECTION 4. Provides that Section 1 of this Act expires and the committee is abolished January 1, 2007.
SECTION 5. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2005.