The bill, S.B. No. 1446, amends the Texas Water Code to establish new regulations regarding the discontinuation, reduction, or impairment of water service during drought conditions. It specifies that utility providers cannot discontinue service to a certified service area unless they have a certificate from the utility commission stating that such actions will not adversely affect present or future convenience and necessity. The bill introduces several conditions under which service may be interrupted, including nonpayment for services, nonpayment for sewer service under specific agreements, nonuse, and the necessity to maintain adequate water supplies during drought conditions.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that retail public utilities without a certificate of public convenience and necessity must also seek approval from the regulatory authority before discontinuing service. It outlines similar conditions for these utilities, allowing them to interrupt service for nonpayment, nonuse, and the need to maintain water supplies during droughts. The changes aim to ensure that water services are managed responsibly during times of drought while still allowing for necessary service interruptions under specific circumstances. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 13.250 (Water Code 13)