BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 3253

By: Miklos

County Affairs

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Surface and groundwater supply is not expected to meet future water demand in Texas, and an alternative water source is necessary to ensure the availability of fresh water. Rainwater harvesting is one such alternative because it stores rainwater for later use, mostly for landscaping. This provides a definite public benefit; a great deal of water is used for landscape irrigation, and capturing rainwater results in lower demand on public water systems, reduced water bills, and ensured supply for the future.

H.B. 3253 includes the acquisition, construction, or improvement of rainwater harvesting systems among items authorized to be included in a public improvement project in a public improvement district.

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. 3253 amends the Local Government Code to include the acquisition, construction, or improvement of a rainwater harvesting system among items authorized to be included in a public improvement project in a public improvement district established by a county or municipality.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the act does not receive the necessary vote, the act takes effect September 1, 2009.