S.B. No. 1268 amends the Texas Water Code to enhance the review and updating process of guidance principles and rules related to the state water and flood plans. The bill mandates that the Texas Water Development Board, in collaboration with various state agencies, must review and update these principles and rules at least every five years to align with the five-year cycle for adopting new water and flood plans. Additionally, the bill specifies that the standard requirement for reviewing rules every four years after their effective date does not apply to rules related to the state water and flood plans.

The amendments include the addition of new subsections that clarify the responsibilities of the board and the agencies involved in the planning process. Specifically, the bill emphasizes the importance of public interest in the development of these plans and ensures that the guidance principles reflect this interest. The changes aim to improve the management of water resources and flood planning in Texas, ensuring that the rules remain relevant and effective in addressing the state's needs. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 16.051, Water Code 16.053, Water Code 16.061, Water Code 16.062 (Water Code 16)
Senate Committee Report: Water Code 16.051, Water Code 16.053, Water Code 16.061, Water Code 16.062 (Water Code 16)
Engrossed: Water Code 16.051, Water Code 16.053, Water Code 16.061, Water Code 16.062 (Water Code 16)
House Committee Report: Water Code 16.051, Water Code 16.053, Water Code 16.061, Water Code 16.062 (Water Code 16)
Enrolled: Water Code 16.051, Water Code 16.053, Water Code 16.061, Water Code 16.062 (Water Code 16)