Legislation

Water management and response to the 2011 drought are expected to be top priorities of state lawmakers when the 83rd Texas Legislature convenes for its 140-day regular session at 12 noon on Tuesday, January 8, 2013.

High Plains Water District staff members monitor proposed legislation and offer testimony to both the House Committee and Senate Committee on Natural Resources regarding possible impacts of such legislation.

 NEW 1-10-2013:  House Natural Resources Chairman Allan Ritter files HB 4 and HB 11 to make a one-time allocation of $2 billion from the state's Economic Stabilization Fund (a.k.a. "Rainy Day Fund') to capitalize a new, dedicated revolving fund for use in financing projects in the State Water Plan.   Ritter says he believes the $2 billion would fully implement the state water plan as it exists today. House Speaker Joe Straus said "I am confident that the House will take bold, substantial action to address our water needs this session--and the filing of these bills formally begins that process."

 Dates of Interest for the 83^rd Texas Legislature

(Regular Session)

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

The 83rd Texas Legislature convened at noon, State Capitol, Austin.

Friday, March 8, 2013
Deadline for filing bills/joint resolutions other than local bills, emergency appropriations, and bills declared an emergency by the Governor.

Monday, May 27, 2013
Last day of the 83rd regular session of the Texas Legislature.

Sunday, June 16, 2013
Last day for the Governor to sign or veto bills passed during the regular legislative session.

Monday, August 26, 2013
Date that bills without specific effective dates (that could not be effective immediately) become law.

Legislative web sites:

• Texas House of Representatives
• Texas Senate
• Texas Legislature On-Line

Related Articles:

"Water Conservation Ideas Offered for Texas Legislature," Jan. 3, 2013  The Texas Tribune