Bill > HB2326

This bill proposes to change the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) from a governor-appointed board to an elected board. Currently composed of three members appointed by the governor, the board would expand to 16 members who are elected by qualified voters in their respective regional water planning areas during the November uniform election date. Board members must have experience in engineering, finance, law, or business, and will be subject to eligibility restrictions, such as not being employed by or having significant financial interests in entities regulated by the board. Members will serve staggered six-year terms, with a maximum of two terms allowed. The first election for board members is set for November 2026, where initial members will draw lots to determine their term lengths (two, four, or six years). The board will continue to select its own chairman, and members must complete a training program before voting or participating in board meetings. Importantly, this bill will only take effect if a corresponding constitutional amendment is approved by voters in 2025, making the implementation contingent on voter approval of the broader electoral change.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2326