H.B. No. 74 proposes the creation of the Puerto Verde Port Authority District in Maverick County, Texas, which will have the authority to issue bonds, impose assessments, fees, and taxes, and will be granted limited powers of eminent domain. The bill introduces Chapter 4011 to the Special District Local Laws Code, detailing the district's purpose, governance by a board of five elected directors, and the ability to engage in economic development activities, including the construction and operation of rail and bridge facilities. The district aims to enhance public welfare and promote economic growth by providing essential services and facilitating local development. A significant provision of the bill is the insertion of Sec. 4011.0313. NO EMINENT DOMAIN POWER. The district may not exercise the power of eminent domain., which explicitly prohibits the district from taking private property for public use without the owner's consent. The bill also outlines the procedures for assessments and taxation, requiring a written petition from property owners before financing projects through assessments. The effectiveness of the bill is contingent upon a two-thirds vote from elected members in both houses, with a fallback provision for the new section to take effect on September 1, 2025, if the necessary votes are not achieved. This legislative action aims to clarify the district's powers while protecting property rights.

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