BILL ANALYSIS
By: Talton
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Currently, the water rate structure is unfairly different for apartment complexes versus single family residences. The fair establishment of water rates ensures that all of the district's customers pay an equitable share of the expenses for the services provided by the district.
HB 2301 would allow a district to establish different fees among classes of customers based on any factors the district considers appropriate.
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
SECTION 1. Subchapter H, Chapter 49, Water Code is amended by adding Section 49.2122:
a) Adds that a district may establish different charges, fees, rentals, or deposits among classes of customers that are based on any factor the district considers appropriate.
b) Presumes that a district has weighed and considered appropriate factors and has properly established charges, fees, rentals, and deposits absent a showing that the district acted arbitrarily and capriciously.
EFFECTIVE DATE
Upon passage, or, if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act takes effect September 1, 2007.