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HB 2246

Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Briscoe Cain and 11 co-sponsors

Texas bill standardizes statutory terminology for a southeastern U.S. coastal water body, affecting legal language across state laws and potentially impacting jurisdiction and regulatory interpretation.

Referred to State Affairs
#coastalaffairs&beaches(i0067) #gulfofamerica(gl83v) #gulfofmexico(g4223) #legislativecouncil #texas(v0001) #legislature(i0520) #sunsetadvisorycommission(v8389) #stateagencies #boards&commissions(i0749)
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Bill Summary · HB 2246

Legislative bill overview

HB 2246 proposes changing statutory terminology used to refer to a specific body of water on Texas's southeastern coast—most likely the Gulf of Mexico or a related water body. The bill standardizes language across state statutes to use consistent naming conventions for this geographic feature.

Why is this important

Statutory terminology changes may seem minor but can have practical implications for legal interpretation, environmental regulations, water rights, and jurisdiction determinations. Consistent naming across laws prevents confusion in enforcement and litigation, particularly relevant given Texas's extensive coastal governance and maritime industries.

Potential points of contention

  • Ambiguity about the target: The bill's description is deliberately vague, raising questions about what specific body of water is being renamed and whether stakeholders understand the full scope of the change
  • Scope of revision: Unclear how many statutes would be affected or whether this creates administrative burden for agencies updating regulations and procedures
  • Motivation concerns: The generic bill title suggests possible political or cultural motivations behind terminology changes that may not be publicly transparent

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

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