S.B. No. 1359 establishes the Wise Regional Water District, detailing its creation, governance, powers, and financing mechanisms. The bill introduces Chapter 11021 to the Special District Local Laws Code, defining key terms and granting the district limited powers of eminent domain, the authority to issue bonds, and the ability to impose fees. It outlines the process for adding or removing participants, requiring a hearing and specific conditions. The district's territory will generally align with Wise County, Texas, and it will be governed by a board of directors appointed by local governing bodies. The bill emphasizes the public purpose of the district and the benefits to all land within its boundaries.

The bill also details the management and financial operations of the district, including the authority to adopt and collect charges for services, issue financial instruments without an election, and create subdistricts to enhance service development. Subdistricts will be governed by boards of supervisors appointed from among residents, with provisions for their election and management. The bill prohibits the district from levying ad valorem taxes and asserts its supremacy over conflicting general laws. Additionally, it includes provisions for converting nonprofit water supply corporations into subdistricts and emphasizes that all property owned by the district or subdistrict is exempt from taxation. The act will take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if not.

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