H.B. No. 4148 aims to enhance the management and taxation of navigation districts and certain port and harbor facilities in Texas. The bill introduces new provisions for electronic storage of local government records, allowing navigation districts and port authorities to establish alternative standards and procedures for record retention and management. It specifies that these standards must not shorten retention periods mandated by state or federal laws. Additionally, the bill modifies the authority of port commissions regarding routine purchases, increasing the limit from $100,000 to $500,000, and exempts certain entities from being classified as governmental entities under specific regulations.

Furthermore, the bill allows port commissions to conduct closed meetings without the requirement to record proceedings related to security measures, including cybersecurity. It also 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 aim to streamline operations and enhance the efficiency of navigation districts and port authorities while ensuring compliance with existing legal frameworks. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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