BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1042

By: Frank

Natural Resources

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Informed observers note that the legislature's designation of the site of the Ringgold reservoir as having unique value for the construction of a dam and reservoir to meet the water supply needs of the state is set to expire later this year. This important designation means that a state agency or political subdivision of the state may not obtain a fee title or an easement that would significantly prevent the construction of a reservoir on the site. As Lake Ringgold remains a necessary component in meeting future water supply needs, it has been suggested that the designation should be extended. H.B. 1042 seeks to provide a limited but important measure of protection for future development of the site for water supplies. 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

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. 1042 designates the site of the proposed Ringgold reservoir, to be located on the Little Wichita River in Clay County approximately one-half mile upstream from its confluence with the Red River, as having unique value for the construction of a dam and reservoir and further determines that the reservoir is necessary to meet water supply needs.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2015.