AUSTIN, TX – State Representative Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs) and State Senator Donna Campbell (R-New Braunfels) passed HB 3405 this evening in the Senate. HB 3405 will expand the boundaries of the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD) to cover a portion of the Trinity Aquifer in Hays County that is not currently within a groundwater district.
Since the passage of HB 3405 in the House on May 8, 2015, Rep. Isaac and Sen. Campbell have diligently worked to fight off amendments and unnecessary language in the Senate.
“Today is a great day for Hays County. I’m pleased to announce an agreement has been reached that will protect private property rights and groundwater within Hays County,” said Rep. Isaac. “Additionally, BSEACD is a non-taxing district, and residential and agricultural wells will be exempt from fees.”
With the passage of HB 3405 we have protected the private property rights of those that may wish to sell their water, while protecting the private property rights of those surrounding well owners that may be negatively affected.
Sen. Campbell stated, “I am confident that we have taken a key step to protecting the Trinity Aquifer and current well owners who have been fearful of their wells running dry.”