The bill amends the Local Government Code and the Water Code to establish new requirements for plat applications related to subdivisions that rely on groundwater as their water supply. Specifically, it mandates that such applications must include a statement prepared by a licensed engineer or geoscientist certifying the availability of adequate groundwater and compliance with rules set by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that allows municipal authorities and commissioners courts to disapprove plat applications that do not meet these requirements.

Furthermore, the TCEQ is tasked with creating rules to define the necessary certification form and content, as well as what constitutes credible evidence of groundwater availability. The changes will only apply to plat applications filed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for January 1, 2026. The TCEQ is required to adopt the necessary rules by September 1, 2026, ensuring that the new regulations are in place to support sustainable water management in areas where groundwater is the primary source of supply.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 212.0101, Local Government Code 232.0032, Water Code 35.019 (Local Government Code 212, Local Government Code 232, Water Code 35)
Senate Committee Report: Local Government Code 212.0101, Local Government Code 232.0032, Water Code 35.019 (Local Government Code 212, Local Government Code 232, Water Code 35)
Engrossed: Local Government Code 212.0101, Local Government Code 232.0032, Water Code 35.019 (Local Government Code 212, Local Government Code 232, Water Code 35)
House Committee Report: Local Government Code 212.0101, Local Government Code 232.0032, Water Code 35.019 (Local Government Code 212, Local Government Code 232, Water Code 35)