H.B. No. 5559 aims to enhance the enforcement of drought contingency plans by water and sewer utilities in Texas, as well as by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. The bill amends several sections of the Water Code to clarify the regulatory authority's role in overseeing the tariffs and operations of water and sewer utilities. Notably, it introduces new requirements for utilities to include their drought contingency plans in the tariffs they file, ensuring that these plans are part of the regulatory oversight. The bill also specifies that utilities may discontinue or reduce service in compliance with drought contingency plans, alongside other reasons such as nonpayment or nonuse.

Additionally, the bill mandates that drought contingency plans must include specific targets for water use reductions during shortages and outline enforcement procedures, which may involve fines or service restrictions. The commission, utility commission, and board are tasked with identifying target goals for these plans and developing model programs to guide water suppliers in achieving effective water use reductions. The legislation is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 13.041, Water Code 13.042, Water Code 13.136, Water Code 13.250, Water Code 11.1272 (Water Code 11, Water Code 13)