Environment (Coastal & Flood Protection)

HB 117 would allow Texas counties to regulate impervious surfaces (like concrete or pavement) in unincorporated areas to address flood risks. It specifically permits counties to set rules for reducing flood danger, supporting flood infrastructure projects, improving drainage, or using natural solutions like rain gardens. This applies only to rural areas outside city limits, not incorporated municipalities. The bill does not create new taxes or fees but gives counties a legal basis to manage land use for water-related safety.

Texas Senate Bill 47 amends the Water Code to expand the definition of "flood project" for funding through the flood infrastructure fund. It specifically adds provisions allowing projects using nature-based features for flood risk reduction, multi-purpose infrastructure that captures floodwater for water supply, and the acquisition of primary residences in 100-year floodplains from low-income homeowners (under 200% of federal poverty level). The bill exempts these newly defined projects from certain prior requirements under Section 15.534(c). This change directly affects communities in flood-prone areas and local entities managing flood infrastructure funding.

This concurrent resolution (HCR 11) urges the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to expedite approval of FEMA flood mitigation funding applications in Texas. It specifically references two stalled projects - the Combes Lateral Drainage Improvement (submitted February 2024) and North Main Drainage Improvement (submitted April 2025) - which remain pending at DHS despite meeting federal requirements. The resolution does not change laws but formally requests faster federal processing to protect communities in flood-prone areas. It is a non-binding request directed to DHS and FEMA, not a legislative mandate.

This bill proposes an exemption from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) permitting requirements for specific dams and reservoirs. It directly affects qualified local sponsors - such as soil conservation districts or flood control authorities with USDA agreements under the Watershed Protection Act - that operate dams for erosion, floodwater, and sediment control. The exemption allows these entities to construct, maintain, or divert water from dams/reservoirs with normal storage under 200 acre-feet without a TCEQ permit, including for repair and maintenance. The exemption remains in effect even if their USDA agreement ends, as long as the dam continues serving its original purpose.

HB 74 would prohibit Texas local governments (including cities, counties, school districts, and special districts) from using public funds - such as taxes, grants, or donations - to plan, create, or operate most environmental projects. Exceptions include projects required by law, flood control, renewable energy infrastructure for their own facilities, waste management, and energy efficiency improvements at public buildings. The bill defines "environmental project" broadly as efforts to reduce emissions, pollutants, or raise public awareness, but explicitly excludes initiatives like electric vehicle charging stations or vehicle emission reduction programs. This legislation, filed in 2025, would take effect 91 days after the legislative session ends.