Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4158

Filed
3/10/25  
Out of House Committee
4/28/25  
Voted on by House
5/16/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/23/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/28/25  
Governor Action
6/20/25  

Caption

Relating to the compensation of the directors of the Texana Groundwater Conservation District.

Impact

The passage of HB 4158 would have significant implications for local governance within the Texana Groundwater Conservation District. By repealing previous legislation, it opens up the possibility for local authorities to establish new compensation metrics that could better align with the demands of the role. Furthermore, it may also affect the overall management of groundwater conservation by incentivizing effective governance, which is critical given the state’s ongoing water resource challenges.

Summary

House Bill 4158 pertains to the compensation structure for the directors of the Texana Groundwater Conservation District. Specifically, it outlines provisions for repealing existing regulations regarding this compensation, signaling a shift in how these directors are remunerated. The bill aims to facilitate a more adaptable approach to director compensation, likely allowing for adjustments that reflect current market conditions and operational needs within the district.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 4158 appears to be supportive among most stakeholders involved in groundwater management, as it is seen as a necessary update to accommodate changing environmental regulations and governance practices. For many, the ability to adapt compensation policies is viewed as a positive step towards ensuring that the district can attract competent leadership necessary for managing vital groundwater resources.

Contention

Despite a generally favorable view, some contention exists surrounding HB 4158, particularly about the implications of repealing existing compensation guidelines. Critics express concern about potential overreach and the absence of checks and balances in determining director compensation, fearing that this could lead to excessive pay for directors without proper oversight. The debate regarding these points highlights ongoing tensions in local resource management and the importance of accountability within such districts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1689

Relating to the use of certain groundwater export fees collected by a groundwater conservation district.

TX HB1690

Relating to an application for a permit for the transfer of groundwater out of a groundwater conservation district.

TX HB2080

Relating to the review of the duties of a groundwater conservation district by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB1055

Relating to permit fees for groundwater wells imposed by the Southeast Texas Groundwater Conservation District.

TX HB5320

Relating to the powers, duties, and governance of the Starr County Drainage District, the change of the name of the Starr County Drainage District to the Starr County Drainage and Groundwater Conservation District, the dissolution of the Starr County Groundwater Conservation District, and the transfer of the assets and liabilities of the Starr County Groundwater Conservation District to the Starr County Drainage and Groundwater Conservation District; authorizing the imposition of a tax.

TX SB1583

Relating to management plans adopted by groundwater conservation districts.

TX HB1633

Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.

TX HB3350

Relating to vacancies on the board of directors of the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District.

TX HB5560

Relating to penalties in certain suits involving a groundwater conservation district; increasing a penalty.

TX SB2660

Relating to the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; authorizing a fee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.