H.B. No. 2970 amends the management and operation of the Gulf Coast Protection District by changing the method of appointing the presiding officer. The bill specifies that the governor will appoint the presiding officer from among the directors, replacing the previous method where the board elected the presiding officer. Additionally, it establishes a term limit, allowing a director to serve as the presiding officer for a maximum of two consecutive terms.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new provision that mandates any project implementation must not disrupt navigation safety or two-way traffic, as defined by existing transportation regulations. This ensures that any developments within the district adhere to safety standards set by the board of pilot commissioners for the ports of Harris County. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0301 (Special District Local Laws Code 9502)
House Committee Report: Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0301 (Special District Local Laws Code 9502)
Engrossed: Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0301 (Special District Local Laws Code 9502)
Senate Committee Report: Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0201, Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0301 (Special District Local Laws Code 9502)
Enrolled: Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0201, Special District Local Laws Code 9502.0301 (Special District Local Laws Code 9502)