H.B. No. 2080 amends Section 36.3011 of the Water Code to enhance the review process of groundwater conservation districts by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The bill establishes a review panel appointed by the commission, which will consist of a chairperson and four members, with specific guidelines on membership to ensure diversity from different districts. Notably, the bill clarifies that the review panel is an advisory body and not a governmental body under Chapters 551 or 552 of the Government Code. Additionally, it mandates that the commission reimburse panel members for actual expenses incurred during their service, provided they submit a verified statement of expenses.

Further provisions include requirements for public notice of meetings and hearings, the ability for the review panel to request technical assistance from the executive administrator, and the provision of legal advice from the office of public interest counsel. The bill also allows panel members to utilize their own consultants or legal counsel. The changes apply to petitions filed on or after the effective date of the Act, while petitions filed before this date will be governed by the previous law. The Act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 36.3011 (Water Code 36)
House Committee Report: Water Code 36.3011 (Water Code 36)
Engrossed: Water Code 36.3011 (Water Code 36)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 36.3011 (Water Code 36)
Enrolled: Water Code 36.3011 (Water Code 36)