Texas water law timeline

Time Line of Texas Water Laws

• December 14, 1837 — Navigable streams
  Act approved Dec. 14, 1837 - An act to reduce into one act, and to amend the several acts relating to the establishment of a General Land Office.
  Highlights: Sec. 42 set the measurement criterion "that all streams of the average width of thirty feet shall be considered navigable streams".
• February 10, 1852 — Irrigation property
  Act approved Feb. 10, 1852 - An act concerning Irrigation Property
  Highlights: Gave County Courts authority over water rights, continuing the Spanish-Mexican system of water rights.
• January 1, 1856 — Haas v. Choussard
  The Texas Supreme Court first recognizes riparian water rights. Haas v. Choussard, , 17 Tex. 588 (Tex. 1856).
  Of Note: This holding set the stage for creating a dual system of water rights which prevailed in Texas until the adoption of the Water Rights Adjudication Act of 1967.
• March 19, 1889 — First Irrigation Act
  SHB 298 - An Act to encourage irrigation, and to provide for the acquisition of the rights to the use of water ... (approved 19, 1889)
  Author: Alfred Tolar
  Highlights: First Irrigation Act; Established doctrine of prior appropriation; Section 2 of the Act declared all the unappropriated waters of every river or natural stream within the arid portion of the state to be the property of the public and may be acquired by appropriation through a "certified filing" with the County Clerk.
• March 9, 1895 — Second Irrigation Act
  SHB 120 - An Act to encourage irrigation and to provide for the acquisition of the right to the use of water...(presented to the Governor 3/9/1895; became law without his signature)
  Author: W. W. Turney
  Highlights: Second Irrigation Act; Applied Appropriation System statewide (whether arid or not); included storm waters; made certified filings more specific
  Of Note: SB 262 amended SHB 120.
• June 13, 1904 — Rule of Capture
  The Texas Supreme Court adopted the Rule of Capture. Houston & Texas Central Railroad Co. v. East, (81 S.W. 279).
  The Supreme Court has reaffirmed the Rule of Capture in the following cases:
  City of Corpus Christi v. City of Pleasanton, 276 S.W.2d 798 (Tex. 1955).
  Friendswood Development Co. v. Smith-Southwest Industries 576 S.W. 2d 21 (1978).
  City of Sherman v. Public Utils. Commission of Texas, 643 S.W. 2d 681 (Tex. 1983).
  Sipriano v. Great Spring Waters of America, Inc., 1 S.W.3d 75, 76 (1999).
  
• November 8, 1904 — HJR 11, 28th Leg., R.S.
  HJR 11, 28th Legislature, Regular Session. Authorizing the submission to a vote of the people of a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of Texas, authorizing legislation in aid of certain internal improvements. (adopted 11/08/1904)
  Author: George B. Griggs
  Highlights:According to Texas Water Development Board self-evaluation report : water for Texas : a report for the Sunset Advisory Commission , this amendment authorized the first public development of water resources in Texas.
• June 14, 1905 — SB 67, 29th Leg. R.S.
  SB 67, 29th Regular Session, authorizing the creation and maintenance of drainage districts. (effective 90 days after adjournment).
  Highlights:This bill authorized the creation of the first drainage districts and marked the beginning of water development efforts.
  Author: George B. Griggs
• May 31, 1913 — HB 37, 33rd Leg. R.S.
  HB 37, 33rd Regular Session, An act to provide an adequate system of laws relating to irrigation….;creating a Board of Water Engineers [to regulate appropriations of water]. (approved 04/09/1913; effective 90 days after adjournment).
  Highlights: Sometimes called Burges-Glasscock Act, this bill set up the "certified filings" procedure for water-rights claims.
  Author: Richard F. Burges
• August 21, 1917 — SJR 12, 35th Leg. R.S.
  SJR 12, 35th Legislature, Regular Session, Declaring the conservation and preservation of all the natural resources of the State of Texas are public rights and duties; providing for the creation of conservation districts, declaring such districts bodies politic and corporate, defining the authority of such districts, and conferring upon the Legislature authority to pass laws with reference thereto; declaring that the Legislature shall have the authority generally to legislate for the purpose of conserving the natural resourcesof the State; fixing the time for the election for the adoption or rejection fo said proposed constitutional amendment... (Adopted 08/21/1917).
  Authors: Carlos Bee (Primary), A.R. McCollum (Primary), Walter D. Caldwell, E.A. Decherd, Jr., F.M. Gibson, Claude B. Hudspeth, W.A. Johnson, R.M. Johnston, J.C. McNealus, Archie Parr
• March 19, 1917 — HB 238, 35th Leg. R.S.
  HB 238, 35th Legislature, Regular Session, empowering commissioner's courts to establish water improvement districts. (effective 03/19/1917)
  Authors: F.J. Hardey, W.T. Williams
• April 2, 1918 — SB 10, 35th Leg. 4th C.S.
  SB 10, 35th Legislature, 4th Called Session, An Act authorizing the creation and establishment of Water Control and Preservation Districts. (effective 04/02/1918)
  Author: V.A. Collins
• July 25, 1919 — SB 18, 36th Leg. 2nd C.S.
  SB 18, 36th Legislature, 2nd Called Session, Authorizing the Commissioner's Court to create Water Improvement Districts and providing method of operation. (Approved July 25, 1919; effective July 25, 1919)
  Authors: R.M. Dudlely, C.R. Buchanan
• July 28, 1919 — SB 19, 36th Leg. 2nd C.S.
  SB 19, 36th Legislature, 2nd Called Session, Providing for the creation of Conservation Districts to be known as Fresh Water Supply Districts. (approved July 28, 1919; effective July 28, 1919)
  Author: W.R. Cousins
• March 16, 1921 — SBWE v. McKnight
  The Texas Supreme Court ruled BWE's adjudicative powers were unconstitutional. State Board of Water Engineers v. McKnight, 111 Tex. 82, 229 S.W. 301 (Tex. 1921).
  Of Note: Ruled BWE's adjudicative powers unconstitutional due to separation of powers doctrine; as a result of the court's decision, Texas would not see another water rights adjudication act for over 45 years.
• July 29, 1923 — SB 219, 38th Leg. R.S.
  SB 219, 38th Legislature, Regular Session, Relating to the pollution of water courses and other bodies of water; penalty for polluting. (Approved March 19, 1923; effective 90 days after adjournment)
  Author: T.J. Holbrook
• July 29, 1923 — SB 267, 38th Leg. R.S.
  SB 267, 38th Legislature, Regular Session, relating to authorizing counties to issue bonds for reclamation of lands and for irrigation purposes; providing for the issuance of notes by such counties for certain irrigation purposes. (Approved March 24.1923, effective 90 days after adjournment)
  Author: Archer Parr
• March 28, 1925 — SB 136, 39th Leg. R.S.
  SB 136, 39th Legislature, Regular Session, relating to the appropriation and use of water for Public Parks, Game Preserves, Recreation and Pleasure Resorts and for Industrial and Domestic Purposes. (effective 90 days after adjournment)
  Author: A.J. Wirtz
• June 23, 1925 — SB 169, 39th Leg. R.S.
  SB 169, 39th Legislature, Regular Session, relating to the organization and government of Water Control and Improvement Districts and the issuance of bonds. (effective 90 days after adjournment)
  Author: Jesse R. Smith
• June 26, 1926 — Motl v. Boyd
  The Texas Supreme Court upheld a dual system -- allowing riparian water rights to coincide with State appropriation rights. Motl v. Boyd, 116 Tex. 82, 286 S.W. 458 (Tex. 1926).
  Of Note: Held that "riparian waters are the waters of the ordinary flow and underflow of the stream, and that the waters of the stream, when they rise above the line of highest ordinary flow, are to be regarded as flood waters or waters to which riparian rights do not attach."
• September 5, 1927 — HB 70, 40th Leg. 1st C.S.
  HB 70, 40th Legislature, First Called Session, providing for and regulating Water Control and Improvement Districts. (effective 90 days after adjournment).
  Author: G.R. Lipscomb
• September 1, 1929 — HB 197, 41st Leg. 2nd C.S.
  HB 197, 41st Legislature, 2nd Called Session, creating the Brazos River Conservation and Reclamation District. (Effective 90 days after adjournment).
  Authors: Leonard E. Tillotson, William Harman, Bailey W. Hardy and James Finlay, Sr.
  Highlights: With this bill, the Legislature created the first river authority; the first "state agency" in the U.S. created specifically for the purpose of developing and managing water resources of an entire river basin.
• May 14, 1931 — SB 586, 42nd Leg. R.S.
  SB 586, 42nd Legislature, Regular Session, water Control and Improvement Districts -- Right of eminent domain and assessment of taxes. (approved June 14, 1931, effective May 14, 1931).
  Author: H.Grady Woodruff
• May 18, 1931 — Wagstaff Act
  In 1931, the 42nd Legislature passed SB 93, commonly known as the Wagstaff Act. The Wagstaff Act grew out of a disputed permit application for the Brownwood Reservoir on Pecan Bayou, a major tributary of of the Colorado River. It ranks water uses in the following order: domestic and municipal, industrial, irrigation, mining, hydroelectric, navigation, recreation and leisure, and other beneficial uses.
• May 28, 1931 — SB 608, 42nd Leg. R.S.
  SB 608, 42nd Legislature, Regular Session, preservation of underground water supply. (approved May 28, 1931, effective May 28, 1931).
  Author: Archer Parr
  Highlights: Declared it the policy and duty of the Texas State Board of Water Engineers to make and enforce rules and regulations for the conservation, protection, preservation and distribution of all underground, subterranean and percolating waters of every kind and nature.
• October 13, 1933 — SB 51, 43rd Leg. 1st C.S.
  SB 51, 43rd Legislature, 1st Called Session, government and control of Water Power Control Districts and Water Improvement Districts. (approved October 13, 1933, effective October 13, 1933).
  Author: K.M Regan
• March 1, 1939 — HB 152, 46th Leg. R.S.
  HB 152, 46th Legislature, Regular Session, an Act ratifying the Rio Grande Compact Between the States of Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. (effective 03/01/1939)
  Authors: Harold Hankamer, William W. "Billy" Bridgers, and Samuel Isaacks
• April 20, 1939 — HB 20, 46th Leg. R.S.
  HB 20, 46th Legislature, Regular Session, an Act known as the "State Soil Conservation Act," reciting the legislative determination and declaration of policy; describing the consequence of soil erosion and depletion of the fertility of the soil; reciting appropriate corrective methods. (effective 04/20/1939)
  Authors: Bailey Ragsdale, Arthur Tarwater, Robert Fuchs, and others.
  Highlights: Local districts were established to implement soil and water conservation program. This was the state counterpart to the national Soil Conservation Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
  Authors: Bailey Ragsdale, Arthur Tarwater, Robert Fuchs, and others.
• March 5, 1947 — Clark v. Briscoe
  The Texas Court of Civil Appeals recognized BWE had authority to amend water rights permits, Clark v. Briscoe 200 S.W.2d 674 (Tex.Civ.App.--Austin, 1947; no writ).
  Of Note: Recognized and accorded to the Board of Water Engineers significant powers over water rights.
• October 13, 1949 — SB 169, 51st Leg. R.S.
  SB 169, 51st Legislature, Regular Session, approving and adopting the Pecos River Compact (Effective 03/0/1949)
  Author: Hill D. Hudson
• June 29, 1949 – June 30, 1949 — SCR 36, 51st Leg. R.S.
  SCR 36, 51st Legislature, Regular Sesion, Establishes a joint revision committee to study the water rights and laws, with a view to effecting a comprehensive revision and re-codification of such existing laws. (Approved 6/29/1949 filed with Secretary of State, 6/30/1949)
  Author: Rogers Kelley of Hidalgo
• June 2, 1949 — HB 162, 51st Leg. R.S.
  HB 162, 51st Legislature, Regular Session, r- Relating to providing for the creation and organization of underground water conservation districts to provide for the conservation, preservation, protection and recharging and the prevention of waste of underground water. (Effective 06/02/1949)
  Author: I.B. Holt
  Highlights: Sometimes referred to as the Texas Groundwater Act; this was legislature's first exercise of constitutional authority to provide for the management of groundwater.
• June 13, 1949 — HB 716, 51st Leg. R.S.
  HB 716, 51st Legislature, Regular Session, authorizing Governor to appoint Interstate Compact Commissioner to represent Texas and to negotiate an agreement with each of affected States respecting use, control and disposition of the waters of the Canadian, Red and Sabine rivers. (Effective 06/13,1949)
  Author: Byron R. Tinsley
• January 2, 1951 – June 1, 1951 — First GCD created
  The first Groundwater Conservation District (GCD), the High Plains Underground Conservation District No. 1, was created in 1951.
• May 10, 1951 — HB 63, 52nd Leg. R.S.
  HB 63, 52nd Legislature, Regular Session, approving and adopting the Canadian River Compact; appointing the State Board of Water Engineers to administer the provisions of the Compact. (Effective 05/10/1951)
  Author: Harold M. LaFont
• April 21, 1953 — SB 131, 53rd Leg. R.S.
  SB 131, 53rd Legislature, Regular Session, Approving and adopting the Sabine River Compact; authorizing the Governor to appoint two Commissioners; providing for fees and expenses of Commissioners, providing cooperation by the State Board of Water Engineers. (effective 04/21/1953)
  Authors: Wardlow Lane, Jep Fuller, and Ellis D. Russell
• June 8, 1953 — HB 448, 53rd Leg. R.S.
  HB 448, 53rd Legislature, Regular Session, an Act declaring the public policy of this State with reference to the establishment of a more comprehensive program for the prevention, abatement and control of stream pollution; creating a five member Water Pollution Advisory Council (effective 06/08/1953)
  Authors: Frank H. Carpenter
• August 25, 1953 — HB 454, 53rd Leg. R.S.
  HB 454, 53rd Legislature, Regular Session, an Act establishing a Water Resources Committee to develop during said period of time shall collect data and develop a long-range water policy and conservation state plan. (effective 90 days after 05/27/1953)
  Author: Joe M. Kilgore
• August 21, 1957 — HB 161, 55th Leg. R.S.
  HB 161, 55th Legislature, Regular Session, an Act relating to creating the Texas Water Development Board and prescribing its composition, powers, duties; authorizing the issuance by the Board of One Hundred Million Dollars in state bonds to create the Texas Water Development Fund.; enabling legislation for HJR 3. (effective 8/21/1957)
  Authors: Leroy Saul, Wade Spilman, Menton Murray and Carl Conley
• November 5, 1957 — HJR 3, 55th Leg. R.S.
  HJR 3, 55th Legislature, Regular Session, For the amendment to the Constitution of Texas adding a new section to be known as Section 49-c of Article III, authorizing the issuance and sale of Two Hundred Million Dollars ($200,000,000) in bonds by the State of Texas to create the Texas Water Development Fund to provide financial assistance to certain political subdivisions or bodies politic and corporate of the State of Texas and in the conservation and development of the water resources of the State. (Approved 11/05/1957)
  Authors: Leroy Saul, Wade Spilman, Menton Murray and Carl Conley
• December 2, 1957 — SB 1, 55th Leg. 1st C.S.
  SB 1, 55th Legislature, First Called Session. Water Planning Act of 1957.   (effective 12/02/1957)
  Authors: George Parkhouse, Carlos Ashley, Frank Owen III, Jep S. Fuller, Ray Roberts, Hubert Hudson and Henry B. Gonzalez
  Highlights: Mandated a formal process for developing a plan to meet the state's future water needs. (Water plans have been adopted in 1961, 1968, 1984, 1990, 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007).
• April 11, 1961 — Valmont v. State
  The Texas Supreme Court stripped Spanish land grant holders of their riparian water rights, holding that the Spanish system was one whereby the Crown or its official made specific grants of water rights; this led to a change from a dual system to one of State Licensing only, Valmont Plantations v.State of Texas, 355 S.W.2d 502 (Tex.1962).
• November 8, 1961 — HB 24, 57th Leg. 1st C.S.
  HB 24, 57th Legislature, First Called Session. An Act establishing a State Water Pollution Control Board to provide for the control, prevention and abatement of pollution of the surface and underground waters of the State.   (effective 90 days after August 8, 1961, but §14 effective November 1, 1962)
  Authors: R. H. (Dick) Cory, Ben Glusing and J. W. Buchanan
• January 8, 1961 — First State Water Plan
  First state water plan adopted.
  Highlights: Emerged during an era of dam and reservoir construction in the United States; recommended 45 new reservoirs.
• November 11, 1962 — HJR 46, 57th Leg. R.S.
  HJR 46, 57th Legislature, Regular Session. For the Amendment to Article III of the Constitution of Texas by adding a new Section to be known as Section 49-d, providing for a State program of acquiring conservation storage facilities in reservoirs.   (Adopted 11/06/1962)
  Author: J.W. Buchanan
• January 30, 1962 — HB 12, 57th Leg. 3rd C.S.
  HB 12, 57th Legislature, Third Called Session. Relating to changing the name of the Board of Water Engineers to the Texas Water Commission and prescribing certain duties, powers and functions thereof.   (effective January 30, 1962)
  Author: J.W. Buchanan
  Highlights: Additional authority to measure, eliminate and prevent water pollution.
• September 1, 1965 — SB 145, 59th Leg. R.S.
  HB 145, 59th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to water resources and water rights and water resources and water rights administration; changing the name of the Texas Water Commission to the Texas Water Rights Commission.   (effective 09/01/1965)
  Authors: George Parkhouse, Culp Krueger, Criss Cole, Jim Bates and Walter Richter
• August 28, 1968 — SB 92, 60th Leg. R.S.
  SB 92, 60th Legislature, Regular Session. An Act providing for the recordation of certain claims of water rights and imposing limitations on the exercise of such claims; providing for the adjudication and administration of water rights.   (effective, August 28, 1968)
  Authors: Charles F. Herring and Criss Cole  
  Highlights: Sometimes referred to as the Water Rights Adjudication Act; the Act consolidated all surface water rights into a unified system by transforming previously held Spanish and Mexican grants, riparian water rights, and claims into "certificates of adjudication."
• September 1, 1967 — SB 204, 60th Leg. R.S.
  SB 204, 60th Legislature, Regular Session. Texas Water Quality Act of 1967 - An Act to establish the Texas Water Quality Board and to provide for the establishment and control of the quality of the water in the state and the control, prevention and abatement of pollution.   (effective, September 1, 1967)
  Authors: Charles F. Herring and Criss Cole  
  Highlights: TWQB assumed functions, powers, duties and responsibilities of Water Pollution Control Board.
• November 1, 1968 — Second State Water Plan
  Second state water plan adopted.  
  Highlights: Recommended 62 new reservoirs and addressed issues surrounding drainage, water quality, recreation, and fish and wildlife.
• January 1, 1953 – December 9, 1970 — Valley Water Case
  State of Texas, et. al. v. Hidalgo County Water Control and Improvement District No. 18, et. al., 443 S.W.2d 728 (Texas Civ. App. - Corpus Christi, March 27, 1969, writ ref'd n.r.e., December 9, 1970).  
  Sometimes referred to as the "Valley Water case"; this case initially arose in the 1950s drought and took over 30 years to decide. It involved approximately 3,000 parties seeking a right to a limited supply of water; as a consequence of the lawsuit, a court-ordered water management plan was developed for the border region in 1970.
• August 30, 1971 — HB 343, 62nd Leg. R.S.
  HB 343, 62nd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to adopting the Water Code, a formal revision of the general and permanent statues relating to water rights, water development, water quality control, river compacts, and general law districts.   (effective 8/30/1971)
  Author: Bill Clayton  
  Highlights: TWQB assumed functions, powers, duties and responsibilities of Water Pollution Control Board.
• June 19, 1975 — SB 137, 64th Leg. R.S.
  SB 137, 64th Legislature, Regular Session. Amending the Water Code as follows: declaring as public policy of the state the maintenance of the ecological environment of the bays and estuaries in the conservation and development of the state's natural resources; directing the Texas Water Rights Commission in the consideration of any permit to store, take, or divert water to assess the effects thereof upon the bays and estuaries of Texas; directing the Texas Water Development Board to investigate the effects of fresh water inflows upon bays and estuaries of Texas and to complete comprehensive studies regarding the development of methods of providing and maintaining the ecological environment thereof; directing the Texas Water Rights Commission, the Texas Water Quality Board, the General Land Office, the Parks and Wildlife Department, and the Coastal and Marine Council to assist and cooperate in the conduct of such studies and investigations; repealing laws in conflict; making appropriations.  (Effective 06/19/1975)
  Author: A.R. "Babe" Schwartz
  Co-Authors D. Roy Harrington, Mike McKinnon and Raul L. Longoria
  Sponsor: Pike Powers
• September 1, 1977 — SB 1139, 65th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1139, 65th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the creation, administration, powers, duties, and operations of the Texas Department of Water Resources; providing penalties.
  Author: Author: Grant Jones
  Sponsor: G.R. "Bob" Close (effective 09/01/1977)
  Highlights: Informally known as the 1977 Water Reorganization Act; created new agency responsible for developing Texas' water resources, maintaining the quality of water, and ensuring equitable distribution of water rights. Section 11.122 of the act gave the agency clear authority to amend all water rights.
• May 24, 1979 — SB 581, 66th Leg. R.S.
  SB 581, 66th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the ratification and implementation of the Red River Compact; amending Title 3, Water Code, as amended, by adding Chapter 46.   (effective 05/24/1979)  
  Authors: Ed Howard, Albert Price, Tom Creighton, Ray Farabee, Roy Blake, Sr.
  Sponsor: Sponsor: Charles Finnell
• June 19, 1983 — HB 2276, 68th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2276, 68th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the right of the state to appropriate water.   (Effective on 6/19/1983)  
  Author: Gerald Geistweidt
  Sponsor: Bill Sims
• September 20, 1984 — Third State Water Plan
  Third state water plan adopted.  
  Highlights: One of first examples of water conservation recommended as way to meet future needs.
• September 1, 1985 — SB 249, 69th Leg. R.S.
  SB 249, 69th Legislature, Regular Session. Sunset Bill - Relating to the organization, administration, powers, duties, jurisdiction, and continuation of the Texas Water Commission and the Texas Water Development Board; creating the River Authority Study Committee; relating to the transfer of water and sewer utility regulation to the Texas Water Commission from the Public Utility Commission of Texas; relating to certain powers and duties of the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Department of Health; providing for frees and penalties; making appropriations.   (effective 09/01/1985)  
  Author: John Sharp
  Sponsor: Charles Evans
• November 5, 1985 — HB 2, 69th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2, 69th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the conservation, development, and protection and enhancement of the quality of, and flood and subsidence control for, surface and underground water and bays and estuaries and providing various financing mechanisms to finance conservation, development, and protection and enhancement of the quality of, and flood, subsidence control, recharge, desalinization, and chloride control for, surface and underground water and agricultural soil and water conservation; enabling legislation for HJR 6   (effective 11/05/1985 upon adoption of HJR 6)  
  Author: Tom Craddick
  Sponsor: John Montford
• September 1, 1985 — HB 536, 69th Leg. R.S.
  HB 536, 69th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the creation, administration, powers, duties, and operations, of the Multi-State Water Resources Planning Commission.   (effective 9/1/1985)  
  Author: J.W. Buchanan
  Sponsor: John Montford
• November 11, 1985 — HJR 6, 69th Leg. R.S.
  HJR 6, 69th Legislature, Regular Session. The constitutional amendment to authorize the issuance of an additional $980 million of Texas Water Development Bonds, to create special water funds for water conservation, water development, water quality enhancement, flood control, drainage, subsidence control, recharge, chloride control, agricultural soil and water conservation, and desalinization, to authorize a bond insurance program, and to clarify the purposes for which Texas Water Development Bonds may be issued.   (approved 11/05/1985)  
  Author: Tom Craddick
  Sponsor: H. Tati Santiesteban
• March 24, 1987 — SB 259, 70th Leg. R.S.
  SB 259, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the investment of certain funds by the Texas Water Development Board.   (effective immediately, 03/24/1987)  
  Author: John Montford
  Sponsor: Terral Smith
• September 1, 1987 — SB 324, 70th Leg. R.S.
  SB 324, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the determination of feasibility of and designation of local sponsors for federal water projects by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Water Commission.   (effective 09/1/1987)  
  Author: John Montford
  Sponsor: Jerry Yost
• September 1, 1987 — SB 585, 70th Leg. R.S.
  SB 585, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the water financing programs of the Texas Water Development Board and granting authority to issue bonds or notes, to use of proceeds, and to authorized investments.   (effective 09/1/1987)  
  Author: H. Tati Santiesteban
  Sponsor: Terral Smith
• September 1, 1987 — SB 683, 70th Leg. R.S.
  SB 683, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the responsibilities of the Texas Water Commission, the Texas Water Development Board, and the Parks and Wildlife Department for the bays and estuaries.   (effective 09/1/1987)  
  Author: John Montford
  Sponsor: Steve Holzheauser
• November 3, 1987 — SJR 54, 70th Leg. R.S.
  SJR 54, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the issuance of an additional $400 million of Texas Water Development Bonds for water supply, water quality, and flood control purposes.   (adopted 11/03/1987)
  Of Note: Enabling legislation passed as HB 72 in 70th Legislature, 2d Called Session.  
  Author: John Montford
  Sponsor: Terral Smith
• June 20, 1987 — HB 734, 70th Leg. R.S.
  HB 734, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the creation, administration, powers, duties, financing, and bond authority of the Texas Water Resources Finance Authority and to the sale to the authority of certain bonds.  (effective immediately, 06/20/1987)  
  Author: Terral Smith
  Sponsor: Grant Jones
• August 31, 1987 — HB 1509, 70th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1509, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to proof of water rights for release of funds by the Texas Water Development Board.  (effective 8/31/1987)  
  Author: Dan Shelley
  Sponsor: Don Henderson
• September 1, 1987 — HB 1783, 70th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1783, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the authority of the Texas Water Commission to place certain restrictions and conditions on water rights permits.  (effective 09/01/1987)  
  Author: Tom Craddick
  Sponsor: J.E. "Buster" Brown
• September 1, 1987 — HB 1787, 70th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1787, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to a watermaster system for the Texas Water Commission.  (effective 09/01/1987)  
  Author: Jack Harris
  Sponsor: J.E. "Buster" Brown
• September 1, 1987 — HB 1788, 70th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1788, 70th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the issuance of term permits for water rights.  (effective 09/01/1987)  
  Author: Jack Harris
  Sponsor: J.E. "Buster" Brown
• November 3, 1987 — HB 72, 70th Leg. 2nd C.S.
  HB 72, 70th Legislature, Second Called Session. Relating to the issuance of Texas water development bonds.  (enabling legislation for SJR 54, 70th Leg., Regular Session, effective upon adoption, 11/03/1987)  
  Author - Terral Smith
  Highlights: Tied to the following call for the 70th Legislature, Second Called Special Session:
  Authorization, issuance, examination, approval, registration, and recording of certain bonds and other obligations by public entities [Wed Jul 15, 1987]
• December 5, 1989 — SB 61, 71st Leg. R.S.
  SB 61, 71st Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the issuance of Texas water development bonds.  (Enabling legislation for SJR 5. Effective upon passage of SJR 5, 12/5/1989)  
  Author: John Montford
  Co-Author: H. Tati Santiesteban
  Sponsor: Terral Smith
• November 7, 1989 — SJR 5, 71st Leg. R.S.
  SJR 5, 71st Legislature, Regular Session. The constitutional amendment to authorize the issuance of an additional $500 million of Texas water development bonds for water supply, water quality, and flood control purposes.  (Adopted 11/07/1989)  
  Author: John Montford
  Co-Author: H. Tati Santiesteban
  Sponsor: Terral Smith
• September 1, 1989 — HB 1458, 71st Leg. R.S.
  HB 1458, 71st Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the protection of groundwater in the state and to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Groundwater Protection Committee.  (Effective on 9/1/89)  
  Author: Lena Guerrero
  Sponsor: H. Tati Santiesteban
• December 13, 1990 — 1990 State Water Plan
  New state water plan adopted.
• September 1, 1989 — HB 1458, 71st Leg. R.S.
  HB 1458, 71st Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the protection of groundwater in the state and to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Groundwater Protection Committee.  (Effective on 9/1/89)  
  Author: Lena Guerrero
  Sponsor: H. Tati Santiesteban
• May 26, 1991 — HB 2329, 72nd Leg. R.S.
   HB 2329, 72nd Legislature, Regular Session, relating to the definition of subterranean streams and the ownership of groundwater.  (05/26/1991 S Record vote; Did Not Pass)
  Author: Harvey Hilderbran
  Sponsor: Bill Sims
• June 7, 1991 — SB 818, 72nd Leg. R.S.
   SB 818, 72nd Legislature, Regular Session, relating to water quality and the establishment of water quality standards and the assessment and management of water quality and establishing the plumbing loan fund.  (Effective June 7, 1991)
  Author: Gonzalo Barrientos
  Sponsor: Robert Saunders
  Highlights: The Texas Clean Rivers Act establishes a state program to reduce nonpoint source water pollution.
• August 12, 1991 — SB 2, 72nd Leg. 1st C.S.
  SB 2, 72nd Legislature, 1st Called Session. Relating to the oversight and regulation of the state's environmental resources, natural resources, and energy resources. Changed name of Texas Water Commission to Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission.  (Effective September 1, 1991, except Article 1 is effective August 12, 1991)  
  Author:: Parker, Carl
  Joint/Additional Primary Authors: Barrientos, Gonzalo | Truan, Carlos | Brooks, Chet | Sims, Bill
  Coauthors: Dickson, Temple | Ellis, Rodney | Johnson, Eddie | Lucio, Eddie | Moncrief, Mike | Rosson, Peggy | Tejeda, Frank | Zaffirini, Judith
  Sponsor: Saunders, Robert
• December 13, 1992 — 1992 State Water Plan
  New state water plan adopted.
• February 1, 1993 — Sierra Club v. Lujan
  On February 1, 1993, U.S. District Judge Lucius Bunton ruled in favor of the Sierra Club in  Sierra Club v. Lujan, No. MO-91-CA-069, 1993 WL 151353 (W.D. Tex. Feb. 1, 1993); Amended Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law (W.D. Tex. May 26, 1993), appeals dismissed sub nom. Sierra Club v. Babbitt, 995 F.2d 571 (5th Cir. 1993), affirmed on appeals from post-judgment orders, 81 F.3d 155 (5th Cir. 1996), cert denied sub nom. Texas v. Sierra Club; ruled the legislature must enact a regulatory system to limit withdrawals from Edwards Aquifer by May 31, 1993 (see SB 1477, 73rd Legislature, Regular Session)
• April 29, 1993 — SB 503, 73rd Leg. R.S.
  SB 503, 73rd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to certain pollution control and to soil and water conservation land improvement measures.  (04/29/1993 Effective immediately)  
  Author: Bill Sims  
  Sponsor: David Counts  
  Highlights: Created a cost-share program to provide financial assistance for the installation of soil and water conservation improvement measures.
• August 30, 1993 — SB 1030, 73rd Leg. R.S.
  SB 1030, 73rd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to creation and operation of a water bank and the establishment and collection of associated fees.  (06/12/1993 Effective in 90 days -- 8/30/93)  
  Author: Kenneth Armbrister  
  Sponsor: David Counts
• August 30, 1993 — SB 1334, 73rd Leg. R.S.
  SB 1334, 73rd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the rulemaking authority of the Texas Water Commission regarding underground water.  (06/19/1993 Effective in 90 days -- 8/30/93)  
  Authors: Teel Bivens, Steve Cariker  
  Sponsor: David Counts
• September 1, 1993 — SB 1477, 73rd Leg. R.S.
  SB 1477, 73rd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the creation, administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the Edwards Aquifer Authority and the management of the Edwards Aquifer; granting the power of eminent domain; authorizing the issuance of bonds; providing civil and administrative penalties; and validating the creation of the Uvalde County Underground Water Conservation District.  (06/11/1993 Effective on 9/1/93)  
  Authors: Kenneth Armbrister, Gonzalo Barrientos, Jeff Wentworth, Judith Zaffirini, Frank Madla  
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis  
  Highlights: Landmark legislation brought about by Federal lawsuit (see Sierra Club v. Lujan under listing for 1993); created authority as a Special Groundwater District; jurisdictional area across 8 counties in South Central Texas; created to manage and regulate San Antonio segment of Balcones Fault Zone Edwards Aquifer. [Note: other legal challenges pertaining to the Voting Rights Act prevented the Authority from operating until 1996].
• August 30, 1993 — HB 1269, 73rd Leg. R.S.
  HB 1269, 73rd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the powers of the Texas Water Development Board and the executive administrator of the board.  (06/09/1993 Effective in 90 days -- 8/30/93)  
  Author: Jerry Yost  
  Sponsor: Kenneth Armbrister
• June 5, 1995 — HB 1989, 74th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1989, 74th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the underground storage of appropriated water incidental to a beneficial use.  (06/05/1995 Effective immediately)  
  Authors: Ciro Rodriguez, Senfronia Thompson, John Longoria  
  Sponsor: Frank Madla
• September 1, 1995 — HB 2294, 74th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2294, 74th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the regulation of groundwater; granting the power of eminent domain.  (06/16/1995 Effective on 9/1/95)  
  Author: Jerry Yost  
  Sponsor: Kenneth Armbrister
• August 20, 1997 — 1997 State Water Plan
  New state water plan adopted.
• September 1, 1997 — SB 1, 75th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1, 75th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the development and management of the water resources of the state; providing penalties.  (06/19/1997 Effective on 9/1/97)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Co-Authors: Eddie Lucio, Jeff Wentworth
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis  
  Highlights: Restructured the process of water planning by creating 16 regional water planning groups; Enabling legislation for SJR 16 (did not pass) and SJR 17(adopted); Changes to interbasin transfers (IBTs) permitting process
• March 20, 1997 — SJR 16, 75th Leg. R.S.
  SJR 16, 75th Legislature, Regular Session. Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the flow of funds for repayment of Texas agricultural water conservation bonds.   (03/20/1997 S Left pending in committee)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis
• November 4, 1997 — SJR 17, 75th Leg. R.S.
  SJR 17, 75th Legislature, Regular Session. Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to creation of the Texas Water Development Fund II; to authorizing the Texas Water Development Board to administer the fund and issue general obligation bonds for the purposes of the fund; and to the flow of funds for repayment of Texas agricultural water conservation bonds.   (05/30/1997 Filed with the Secretary of State; adopted 11/04/1997)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis
• April 22, 1997 — HB 1802, 75th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1802, 75th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the development and management of the water resources of the state; assessing fees; making appropriations.  (04/22/1997 H Left pending in committee)
  Highlights: Would have authorized TNRCC to collect a fee from each public water supply system; would have provided for the establishment of an annual water rights fee, compensation to the basin of origin, and establishment of a water facilities fund.
  Authors: Ron Lewis, Robert Puente
• June 18, 1999 — SB 272, 76th Leg. R.S.
  SB 272, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to regional water planning groups.  (06/18/1999 Effective immediately).
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis
• June 18, 1999 — SB 657, 76th Leg. R.S.
  SB 657, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the development of water management strategies for periods of drought.  (06/18/1999 Effective immediately)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis
• September 1, 1999 — SB 1301, 76th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1301, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to water conservation measures required in a county during a declared drought disaster.   (06/19/1999 Effective on 9/1/99)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis
• June 18, 1999 — SB 1310, 76th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1310, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to providing for representation of agricultural interests in water resource planning and management.   (06/18/1999 Effective immediately)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Robby Cook
• September 1, 1999 — SB 1323, 76th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1323, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to requiring certain plats for the subdivision of land to include proof of groundwater supply.  (06/18/1999 Effective on 9/1/99)
  Author: Jeff Wentworth
  Sponsor: Harvey Hilderbran
• September 1, 1999 — SB 1911, 76th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1911, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the creation, administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of certain groundwater conservation districts.  (06/19/1999 Effective on 9/1/99)
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Co-Authors: Kenneth Armbrister , Troy Fraser , Eddie Lucio, Carlos Truan, Judith Zaffirini
  Sponsors: Gary Walker, Ron Lewis
• September 1, 1999 — HB 846, 76th Leg. R.S.
  HB 846, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the administration, management, operation, and authority of water districts and authorities.  (06/19/1999 Effective on 9/1/99)
  Author: Ron Lewis
  Sponsor: J.E. "Buster" Brown
• June 18, 1999 — HB 2660, 76th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2660, 76th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to state drought planning and preparation.  (06/18/1999 Effective immediately)
  Author: David Swindford
  Co-Author: Robby Cook
  Sponsor: Steve Ogden
• September 1, 2001 — SB 2, 77th Leg. R.S.
  SB 2, 77th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the development and management of the water resources of the state, including the ratification of the creation of certain groundwater conservation districts; providing penalties.  (06/15/2001 Effective on 9/1/01)
  Highlights: Follow-up to SB1 (75th Legislature); enacted significant amendments to regional water planning; established Rural Water Assistance Fund (RWAF) and the Water Infrastructure Fund. (WIF), both of which were intended to be supported by future appropriations; created Texas Water Advisory Council.
  Author: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Sponsor: Ron Lewis
• September 1, 2001 — SB 312, 77th Leg. R.S.
  SB 312, 77th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the review and functions of the Texas Water Development Board and the improvement of certain water delivery infrastructure.  (Effective on 9/1/01)
  Highlights: Sunset review of Texas Water Development Board; agency was preserved for 12 more years and program changes were mandated.
  Author: Judith Zaffirini
  Sponsor: Warren Chisum
• September 1, 2001 — HB 2912, 77th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2912, 77th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission  (06/14/2001 Effective on 9/1/0, unless provided otherwise)
  Authors: Fred Bosse, Warren Chisum, David Counts
  Sponsor: Chris Harris
• November 6, 2001 — HJR 81, 77th Leg. R.S.
  HJR 81, 77th Legislature, Regular Session. Providing for the issuance of up to $2 billion in additional general obligation bonds by the Texas Water Development Board.  (adopted 11/06/2001)
  Author: David Counts
  Sponsor: J.E. "Buster" Brown
  Of Note: No enabling legislation required.
• December 12, 2001 — 2002 State Water Plan
  New state water plan adopted -- first to be adopted since passage of SB 1 in 1997.
• May 20, 2003 — SB 1094, 78th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1094, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the creation of a task force to evaluate matters regarding water conservation.  (05/20/2003 Effective immediately)
  Highlights: Created the Water Conservation Implementation Task Force (WCIT) to review, evaluate, and recommend optimum levels of water use efficiency and conservation.
  Author: Robert Duncan
  Sponsor: Robert Puente
• June 20, 2003 — SB 1639, 78th Leg. R.S.
  SB 1639, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to regulating the waters of the state, including the spacing and production of groundwater and the control of instream flows.  (06/20/2003 E Effective immediately)
  Author: Todd Staples
  Sponsor: Ruben Hope, Jr.
• June 20, 2003 — HB 1378, 78th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1378, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to certain duties and information regarding water planning and development matters in the state.   (06/20/2003 Effective immediately)
  Author: Charlie Geren
  Sponsor: Robert Duncan
• June 20, 2003 — HB 1534, 78th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1534, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to certain powers of groundwater conservation districts.   (06/20/2003 Effective on 9/1/03)
  Author: Robby Cook
  Sponsor: Kenneth Armbrister
• June 20, 2003 — HB 1541, 78th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1541, 78th Legislature, Relating to the general powers and authority of water districts.   (06/18/2003 Effective immediately)
  Author: Bill Callegari
  Sponsor: Jon Lindsay
• June 20, 2003 — HB 2663, 78th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2663, 78th Legislature, Relating to the establishment of quantifiable goals for drought contingency plans.   (06/18/2003 Effective immediately)
  Author: Robert Puente
  Sponsor: Eddie Lucio
• December 13, 2004 — Water Policy Cmte.
  Senate Select Committee on Water Policycreated by Lt. Governor Dewhurst (included subcommittee on the Lease of State Water Rights)
  Chair - Kenneth Armbrister
  Members: Kip Averitt, Robert Duncan, Jon Lindsay, Frank Madla, Todd Staples, Robert Deuell, Troy Fraser, Eddie Lucio, Eliot Shapleigh, Tommy Williams
  
• December 1, 2006 — Environmental Flows Cmte.
  Executive Order No. RP-50
  Governor Perry created the Environmental Flows Advisory Committee; charge is to develop recommendations to establish a process that will achieve a consensus-based, regional approach to integrate environmental flow protection into the water allocation process while ensuring that human water needs are satisfied.
• May 24, 2005 — SB 3, 79th Leg. R.S.
  SB 3, 79th Legislature, Relating to the development and management of the water resources of the state, including the creation of a groundwater conservation district; imposing fees and providing penalties.   (05/24/2005 H Placed on General State Calendar)
  Author: Kenneth Armbrister
  Sponsor: Robert Puente
  Highlights: Based on recommendations from 2004 Senate Select Committee on Water Policy; focused on further implementation of water planning system set in place by SB1 (75th) and SB2 (77th).
• June 1, 2005 — HB 1763, 79th Leg. R.S.
  HB 1763, 79th Legislature, Relating to the notice, hearing, rulemaking, and permitting procedures for groundwater conservation districts.   (06/18/2005 Effective on 9/1/05)
  Authors: Robby Cook, Ruben Hope, Jr.
  Sponsor: Robert Duncan
  Highlights: Established a process to enable consistent management of groundwater resources within 16 groundwater management areas; requires the GCDs in GMAs to meet at least once every year to conduct joint planning.
• June 18, 2005 — HB 2201, 79th Leg. R.S.
  HB 2201, 79th Legislature, Relating to implementing a clean coal project in this state.   (Effective on 6/18/05)
  Authors: Bryan Hughes, Chuck Hopson, Robby Cook, Lois W. Kolkhorst, Mark Homer
  Coauthors: Dan Branch, Dan Flynn, Linda Harper-Brown, Bill Keefer, Ken Paxton, Mark Strama, and Bill Zedler.
  Sponsor: Craig Estes
  Highlights: § 6, (2) and (3) substituted "Commission on Environmental Quality" for "Natural Resource Conservation Commission."
• July 6, 2005 — SB 15, 79th Leg. 1st C.S.
  SB 15, 79th Legislature, 1st Called Session.Relating to the management of the water resources of the state, including the protection of instream flows and freshwater inflows. (07/06/2005 S Committee report printed and distributed)
  Author: Armbrister
• December 1, 2006 — Water law interim charge
  Interim charge to Senate Committee on Natural Resources to study and assess all issues related to ground and surface water law, policy and management.
  Chair: Kip Averitt
  Vice-Chair: Craig Estes
  Members: Gonzalo Barrientos, Robert Duncan, Troy Fraser, Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, Mike Jackson, Jon Lindsay, Kel Seliger, Todd Staples.
  Report issued December 2006 is available at the following link:
  http://www.lrl.state.tx.us/scanned/interim/79/N219w.pdf
• November 14, 2006 — 2007 State Water Plan
  New State Water Plan (Water for Texas 2007) Adopted.
• June 16, 2007 — SB 3, 80th Leg. R.S.
  SB 3, 80th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the development, management, and preservation of the water resources of the state; providing penalties. (06/16/2007; This Act takes effect September 1, 2007, except Section 2.27 takes effect September 1, 2009, and Articles 4, 9, 10, and 12 take effect immediately).
  Author: Kip Averitt
  Sponsor: Robert Puente
  Highlights: Established the Joint Committee on State Water Funding and repealed Texas Water Advisory Council.
• November 6, 2007 — SJR 20, 80th Leg. R.S.
  SJR 20, 80th Legislature, Regular Session. Providing for the issuance of additional general obligation bonds by the Texas Water Development Board to provide assistance to economically distressed areas. (Adopted 11/06/2007)
  Authors: Eddie Lucio (primary), Juan Hinojosa
  Sponsors: Norma Chavez, Tracy O. King, Ryan Guillen, Abel Herrero, Eddie Lucio III
  Of Note: No enabling legislation required.
• June 15, 2007 — HB 3, 80th Leg. R.S.
  HB 3, 80th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the management of the water resources of the state, including the protection of instream flows and freshwater inflows, and to the management of groundwater in the area regulated by the Edwards Aquifer Authority and to the operations and oversight of the authority. (06/15/2007; This Act takes effect September 1, 2007, except Article 2 takes effect immediately)
  Authors: Authors: Robert Puente; Harvey Hildebran
  Sponsors: Sponsor: Kip Averitt
• June 15, 2007 — HB 4, 80th Leg. R.S.
  HB 4, 80th Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to water conservation. (06/15/2007; This Act takes effect immediately, except Section 10 takes effect September 1, 2009.)
  Author: Robert Puente
  Sponsor:Kip Averitt
• June 15, 2007 — State Water Funding Cmte
  Joint Interim Committee on State Water Funding
  Co-Chairs: Senator Kip Averitt; Representative Mike "Tuffy" Hamilton
  Members: Senators: Robert Duncan, Kevin Eltife, Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa; Representatives: Brandon Creighton, Dan Gattis, Will Harnett
  Report issued March 2009 is available at the following link:
  http://www.lrl.state.tx.us/scanned/interim/80/W291.pdf
• September 1, 2009 — SB 2312, 81st Leg. R.S.
  SB 2312, 81st Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to eligibility for funds from the water infrastructure fund from the Texas Water Development Board. (06/19/2009 Effective on 9/1/09)
  Author: Kip Averitt
  Sponsor: Doug Miller
• June 19, 2009 — HB 3861, 81st Leg. R.S.
  HB 3861, 81st Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the financing by the Texas Water Development Board of the proposed Lake Columbia reservoir project. (06/19/2009 Effective immediately)
  Author: Chuck Hopson, Jim McReynolds
  Sponsor: Robert Nichols
• May 17, 2011 — SB 360, 82nd Leg. R.S.
  SB 360, 82nd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the composition and use of money in the rural water assistance fund. (Effective 09/1/2011)
  Author: Troy Fraser
  Sponsor: Brandon Creighton
• September 1, 2011 — SB 332, 82nd Leg. R.S.
  SB 332, 82nd Legislature, Regular Session. Relating to the ownership of groundwater below the surface of the land, the right to produce groundwater, and the management of groundwater in the state. (Effective 09/1/2011)
  Author: Troy Fraser
  Coauthor: Robert Duncan, Wendy Davis
  Sponsor: Allan Ritter
• November 8, 2011 — SJR 4, 82nd Leg. R.S.
  SJR 4, 82nd Legislature, Regular Session. The constitutional amendment providing for the issuance of additional general obligation bonds by the Texas Water Development Board in an amount not to exceed $6 billion at any time outstanding. (Adopted 11/8/2011)
• December 15, 2011 — 2012 State Water Plan
  New State Water Plan Adopted.
• February 24, 2012 — Edwards Aquifer Auth. v. Day
  In Edwards Aquifer Authority v. Burrell Day and Joel McDaniel, the Supreme Court of Texas held that land ownership includes an interest in groundwater in place that cannot be taken for public use without adequate compensation guaranteed by Article I, Section 17(a) of the Texas Constitution.
• May 19, 2016 — 2017 State Water Plan
  New State Water Plan Adopted.