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SB 1194

Relating to creating the Central Texas Water Alliance; providing authority to issue bonds; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Brad Buckley and 3 co-sponsors

SB 1194 creates the Central Texas Water Alliance with power to issue bonds, impose fees, and exercise eminent domain for regional water infrastructure management.

Effective immediately
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Bill Summary · SB 1194

Legislative bill overview

SB 1194 establishes the Central Texas Water Alliance as a new governmental entity with authority to issue bonds for water infrastructure projects, impose fees on users, and exercise eminent domain powers to acquire necessary land and water rights. The bill grants this alliance independent financing and regulatory authority to address water supply and management needs in the Central Texas region.

Why is this important

Water infrastructure and supply management directly affect millions of residents' access to reliable water service and impacts property values, development patterns, and economic growth in Central Texas. The creation of a new special district with eminent domain and fee-setting powers represents a significant shift in regional water governance and gives officials new tools to implement long-term water strategies, though it also creates new costs and regulatory authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Eminent domain concerns: The broad power to take private property for water projects may face opposition from landowners and property rights advocates who worry about fair compensation and project justification standards
  • Fee authority and costs: Unclear regulatory limits on how much fees can be imposed on water users could lead to disputes over affordability impacts on residential and agricultural consumers
  • Governance and accountability: The creation of a new special district raises questions about oversight mechanisms, board member selection, public participation in decision-making, and whether existing water authorities' roles are diminished

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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