The bill, S.B. No. 2080, aims to enhance the management and taxation of navigation districts and certain port and harbor facilities in Texas. It introduces new provisions for the electronic storage of local government records, allowing navigation districts and port authorities to establish alternative standards and procedures for record retention. These standards must include processes for converting hard copy documents to electronic formats and ensuring that retention periods comply with state or federal laws. Additionally, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding closed meetings, stating that port commissions are not required to record proceedings related to security measures, including cybersecurity.

Furthermore, the bill increases the threshold for routine purchases and contracts that can be made by port commissions and their authorized representatives from $100,000 to $500,000. It also clarifies the definition of "governmental entity" to exclude navigation districts and port authorities. The bill expands the definition of "navigation-related commerce" to include various activities, such as operating cruise ship terminal facilities and managing properties connected to public docks. The changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 60.403, Transportation Code 54.054, Tax Code 25.07 (Tax Code 25, Transportation Code 54, Water Code 60)