WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1855

Relating to requirements that certain plats for the subdivision of land include evidence of groundwater supply.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Stan Gerdes and 10 co-sponsors

Texas bill requiring developers to prove adequate groundwater supply before subdividing land to prevent unsustainable development in water-scarce areas.

Committee report sent to Calendars
#citygovernment--landuse&zoning(i0064) #countygovernment--landuse&zoning(i0098) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #environment--water(i0320) #platting(s0285) #propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595) #water--development(i0875)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1855

Legislative bill overview

SB 1855 requires developers subdividing land in Texas to provide evidence of adequate groundwater supply as part of their subdivision plat submissions. The bill establishes that developers must demonstrate access to sufficient groundwater resources before land parcels can be officially platted for residential or commercial development.

Why is this important

Texas faces increasing water scarcity concerns, particularly in rural and rapidly developing areas where groundwater depletion threatens long-term sustainability. By requiring upfront proof of water availability, the bill aims to prevent speculative development in areas without reliable water sources, protecting both future residents and existing water users from unsustainable growth patterns.

Potential points of contention

  • Development cost and feasibility: Requiring groundwater assessments could increase platting costs and delay projects, potentially affecting smaller developers and rural landowners more severely than large developers with resources for extensive hydrogeological studies
  • Groundwater testing standards: The bill's lack of specified testing methodologies or acceptable evidence types may create ambiguity about what constitutes sufficient proof, leading to inconsistent enforcement across counties
  • Property rights concerns: Landowners may view mandatory water availability requirements as government overreach into private property decisions and market-driven land transactions

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

Sign in to ask a question.