The bill, S.B. No. 3044, proposes amendments to the governance structure and powers of the Presidio County Underground Water Conservation District. It increases the board of directors from five to seven members, with specific provisions for appointments: one member will be appointed by the governing body of the City of Marfa and another by the governing body of the City of Presidio. Additionally, the bill clarifies that vacancies on the board will be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment, rather than by the commissioners court of Presidio County, which is no longer mentioned in this context.
Furthermore, the bill updates the language regarding the district's powers, affirming that it has all rights and duties as provided by state law, specifically referencing groundwater conservation districts. It also specifies that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will oversee the district, replacing the previous mention of the Texas Water Commission. The bill repeals a section of the previous law, streamlining the governance process and ensuring that the district operates under the updated legal framework. If passed, the bill would take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if not.