The bill amends the Special District Local Laws Code to authorize the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District to assess a production fee for groundwater withdrawal. Specifically, it introduces a new section, 8843.1511, which allows the district to impose a fee not exceeding 38 cents per 1,000 gallons of groundwater withdrawn or the raw surface water cost from other wholesale water suppliers. The revenue generated from this fee can be used for any lawful purpose, although it does not apply to wells used exclusively for agricultural purposes or those exempt under district rules.

Additionally, the bill removes the prohibition against the district imposing taxes and collecting fees, as previously stated in Section 8843.153, which has been amended to reflect this change. Several sections of Chapter 8843 are also repealed, streamlining the regulations governing the district. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Special District Local Laws Code 8843.153, Subchapter D, Chapter , Special District Local Laws Code 8843.151 (Subchapter D, Chapter , Special District Local Laws Code 8843, Special District Local Laws Code 8843)