The bill, S.B. No. 1268, proposes amendments to the Texas Water Code to enhance the review and updating process of guidance principles and rules related to the state water and flood plans. It 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. The bill also specifies that the requirement for reviewing rules within four years of their adoption, as outlined in the Government Code, does not apply to rules related to the state water and flood plans.

Key provisions include the addition of new subsections that emphasize the importance of public interest in the development of these plans and the necessity for input from multiple state departments. The bill aims to ensure that the guidance principles reflect current needs and conditions, thereby improving the management of water resources and flood planning in Texas. The proposed changes are 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)