BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 2083
87R8613 SGM-D	By: Darby (Perry)
	Water, Agriculture & Rural Affairs
	4/29/2021
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

The Upper Colorado River Authority (UCRA) was created in 1935 to protect the watershed of its now 14-county region. Today, the UCRA manages long-term water contracts and water supply agreements, supports infrastructure improvements, and participates in numerous water quality and enhancement projects.

The UCRA is governed by a nine-member board appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Texas Senate. The presiding officer of the board is also its CEO.

Given the CEO's significant workload, the UCRA could benefit from hiring a general manager to run the general office and be fully committed to furthering the UCRA's business.

H.B. 2083 gives the UCRA statutory authority to employ a general manager. The UCRA does not receive a state appropriation and its staff are paid by the UCRA. 

H.B. 2083 amends current law relating to the general manager of the Upper Colorado River Authority.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Sections 8506.056(d), (e), and (f), Special District Local Laws Code, as follows:

(d) Authorizes the board of directors of the Upper Colorado River Authority (authority) to employ a general manager. Provides that the general manager, rather than the presiding officer, is the chief executive officer of the authority. Prohibits the general manager from being a member of the board.

(e) Provides that the secretary, secretary pro tem, presiding officer, general manager, and treasurer have the powers and duties, hold office for the term, and are subject to removal in the manner provided by the bylaws.

(f) Requires the board to set the compensation of the secretary, secretary pro tem, presiding officer, general manager, and treasurer, rather than the compensation of the secretary, secretary pro tem, presiding officer, and treasurer.

SECTION 2. Amends Section 8506.058(c), Special District Local Laws Code, to provide that the general manager, rather than the presiding officer, is in charge of the authority's general office.

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2021.