Honorable Allan Ritter, Chair, House Committee on Natural Resources
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB2740 by Martinez Fischer (Relating to the renewal or amendment of permits issued by groundwater conservation districts.), As Introduced
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend Chapter 36 of the Water Code to specify procedures regarding renewal or permit amendments issued by a groundwater and conservation district. After notice and hearing conducted, a district could amend an operating permit to adjust the amount or rate of authorized withdrawals by not more than five percent, based on a finding and supported by evidence submitted by the general manager of the district that a significant change in aquifer conditions justifies the amendment. A district that amends an operating permit must similarly amend all operating permits that are affected by the change in aquifer conditions.
Local Government Impact
There could be fiscal impact to a district to hold a public hearing that would vary depending on current procedures and a district's budget. Costs to hold a public hearing are an estimated $12,000 which could be a significant portion of a district's current budget which may range from $25,000 to $100,000. In addition, while the five percent change to a permit would not result in increased costs, it could affect the amount of water that would be available.