The bill, H.B. No. 1529, proposes an amendment to the production fees imposed by the Southwestern Travis County Groundwater Conservation District. Specifically, it allows for an increase in the maximum rate of the production fee from 20 cents to 50 cents per thousand gallons of water withdrawn from non-exempt wells. This change aims to provide the district with greater flexibility in managing water resources and ensuring sustainable groundwater use.
The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving the district time to adjust to the new fee structure. The amendment reflects a shift in policy to potentially enhance funding for groundwater conservation efforts while addressing the growing demand for water resources in the region.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Special District Local Laws Code 8871.154 (Special District Local Laws Code 8871)