TITLE: Relating to a required water quality permit for construction of a high-speed rail project.

SUMMARY: Relating to a required water quality permit for construction of a high-speed rail project.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to a required water quality permit for construction of a high-speed rail project. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter B, Chapter 26, Water Code, is amended by adding Section 26.054 to read as follows: Sec. 26.054. PERMIT REQUIRED FOR HIGH-SPEED RAIL PROJECT. (a) In this section, "high-speed rail" has the meaning assigned by Section 112.201, Transportation Code. (b) The commission may issue a permit authorizing the construction and operation of a high-speed rail project only if the commission determines that the construction and operation will not adversely impact the quality of drinking water, surface water, or groundwater in any area of this state. (c) In addition to any other permit required by law, a person may not begin construction of a high-speed rail project without first obtaining a permit issued by the commission under this section. (d) The commission shall adopt rules to administer this section, including rules establishing application procedures and fees for a permit required by this section. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.