S.B. No. 790 introduces a new section, 13.5051, to the Water Code, establishing a simplified complaint process for tenants disputing water or wastewater service bills with property owners. The bill empowers the utility commission to create rules for this streamlined procedure, which specifically addresses complaints filed under Sections 13.503, 13.5031, or 13.505. Additionally, it clarifies that the procedures outlined in Chapter 2001 of the Government Code do not apply to the resolution of complaints under this new section.

The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the Texas Legislature; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025. The legislation aims to enhance the efficiency of resolving tenant complaints regarding utility billing, thereby improving customer service and satisfaction within the public utility sector.

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