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HB 3467

Relating to the disclosure by a seller of certain real property to the purchaser of the property of information regarding the process for obtaining a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for the storage, taking, or diversion of state water.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Vikki Goodwin

HB 3467 mandates real property sellers disclose Texas water permitting processes and requirements to buyers, affecting property transactions involving state water storage, taking, or diversion rights.

Referred to Natural Resources
#environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595) #water--development(i0875) #water--general(i0885) #water--rights(i0870)
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Bill Summary · HB 3467

Legislative bill overview

HB 3467 requires sellers of real property in Texas to disclose to purchasers information about the process for obtaining permits from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for storing, taking, or diverting state water. The bill aims to ensure buyers have knowledge of water rights and permitting requirements associated with their property purchase.

Why is this important

Water rights and permits are critical assets in Texas, particularly in agricultural and development contexts, and can significantly affect property value and usability. Requiring disclosure protects buyers from unknowingly purchasing property with water restrictions or complicated permitting processes, reducing post-purchase disputes and enabling informed purchasing decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope clarity: The bill's language about "information regarding the process" is vague—it's unclear whether sellers must actively obtain permit applications, provide existing permit status, or simply inform buyers that permits exist
  • Seller burden: Sellers may face liability if they fail to provide adequate disclosure or if the information becomes outdated, potentially increasing transaction costs and legal exposure
  • Water rights complexity: Texas water law is intricate with distinctions between surface water, groundwater, and various permit types; prescriptive disclosure requirements may oversimplify or inadequately address different scenarios

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

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