BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 521

By: Fraser

Natural Resources

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Interested parties contend that the period for which the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality may grant or renew an emergency authorization relating to the use of state water should be extended. S.B. 521 seeks to address this issue.

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

S.B. 521 amends the Water Code to extend from 120 days to 270 days the maximum initial period for which the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), on the basis of certain findings by TCEQ, may grant an emergency permit, order, or amendment to an existing permit, certified filing, or certificate of adjudication relating to the use of state water after notice to the governor.

EFFECTIVE DATE

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