TITLE 31.NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION

Part 16. COASTAL COORDINATION COUNCIL

Chapter 501. COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

The Coastal Coordination Council (Council) proposes amendments to 31 TAC, Part 16, Chapter 501, relating to Coastal Management Program, §501.3, relating to Definitions and Abbreviations; §501.10, relating to Compliance with Goals and Policies; §501.13, relating to Administrative Policies; §501.16, relating to Policies for Construction of Electric Generating and Transmission Facilities; §501.21, relating to Policies for Discharge of Municipal and Industrial Wastewater to Coastal Waters; §501.23, relating to Policies for Development in Critical Areas; §501.25, relating to Policies for Dredging and Dredged Material Disposal and Placement; §501.28, relating to Policies for Development Within Coastal Barrier Resource System Units and Otherwise Protected Areas on Coastal Barriers; §501.31, relating to Policies for Transportation Projects; and §501.33, relating to Policies for Appropriations of Water. The proposed amendments update citations and make minor editorial corrections. These rule amendments have been undertaken as a result of the comprehensive review of the Council's rules mandated by Texas Government Code §2001.039, and will ensure that the rules are clear, necessary, and updated.

The proposed amendment to §501.3(b)(2)(A) corrects the citation to 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 63, Chapter 1, which should read: 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter I, Part 63.

The proposed amendment to §501.3(b)(5) corrects the citation to the definition of "Wetlands," which is incorrectly cited as Texas Water Code §11.052. The definition is found in Texas Water Code §11.502.

The proposed amendment to §501.3(b)(7) updates the definition of "Critical erosion area" to make it consistent with the definition in Texas Natural Resources Code §33.203, which was amended by the 76th Texas Legislature, Senate Bill 1690, effective September 1, 1999.

The proposed amendment to §501.3(b)(16) updates the name of the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

The proposed amendment to §501.10(a) corrects the reference to the "goals and policies in §§501.12 - 501.15 of this title (relating to Goals, Administrative Policies, and Policies for Specific Activities and Coastal Natural Resource Areas)." Section 501.14, relating to Policies for Specific Activities and Coastal Natural Resource Areas, was repealed and readopted as §§501.16 - 501.34, effective October 6, 2004 (29 TexReg 9408, October 1, 2004). Section 501.10(a), as amended, will reference "the goals and policies in this subchapter."

The proposed amendment to §501.13(a)(4) updates the reference to the "Texas CMP Document, Chapter XX." When §501.13(a)(4) was adopted in 1995, the "CMP Document" had not yet been finalized, so this reference was written into §501.13(a)(4) as a placeholder. The correct name and chapter number of the "CMP Document" is the "Texas Coastal Management Program Final Environmental Impact Statement, August 1996, Part II, Chapter 7."

The proposed amendment to §501.16(a)(4) inserts the phrase "as those maps may be modified, revised, or corrected" to conform with the language of the Coastal Barrier Resources Act, 16 USC §3503(a). Although 16 USC §3503(a) allowed for the revision of the Coastal Barrier Resources System maps by the Secretary of the Interior, similar language was not included in §501.16(a)(4) when the policies in §501.16 were first adopted. The Coastal Barrier Resources Act, 16 USC §3503(a), was amended in 2000 to clarify the authority under which those maps may be modified, revised, or corrected (Pub. L. 106-514, Sec. 3(d), Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2394, 2395). The proposed amendment will make §501.16(a)(4) consistent with 16 USC §3503(a), as amended.

The proposed amendment to §501.16(b) updates the citation to Texas Civil Statutes, Article 1446c, the Public Utility Regulatory Act, which was codified in Texas Utilities Code §11.001, et seq., in 1997 (Acts 1997, 75th Legislature, Chapter 166, §1, effective September 1, 1997).

The proposed amendment to §501.21(a)(2) updates this rule to conform with Texas Water Code §26.0135, regarding the requirement that Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) rules provide for the assessment of water quality on a coastal watershed basis once every two years. The proposed amendment removes the words "once every two years" to reflect a statutory change to Texas Water Code §26.0135(d). When the policies in §501.21(a)(2) were first adopted, Texas Water Code §26.0135(d) required each river authority to report on water quality assessments on or before October 1 of each even-numbered year. However, §26.0135(d) was amended in 1997 to require river authorities to submit a water quality report in the appropriate year of the cycle provided by TCEQ rules (Acts 1997, 75th Legislature, Chapter 101, §1, effective September 1, 1997). The proposed amendment to §501.21(a)(2) will make the rule consistent with the statutory change to Texas Water Code §26.0135(d).

The proposed amendment to §501.23(b), updates the citation to "Texas Civil Statutes, Article 5421u," which was codified in Chapter 221 of the Texas Natural Resources Code in 1997 (Acts 1997, 75th Legislature, Chapter 165, §24.01(a), effective September 1, 1997).

The proposed amendment to §501.25(i) updates the citation to "Texas Civil Statutes, Article 5415e-2," which was codified in Chapter 51 of the Texas Transportation Code in 1995 (Acts 1995, 74th Legislature, Chapter 165, §1, effective September 1, 1995).

The proposed amendment to §501.28(a) inserts the phrase "as those maps may be modified, revised, or corrected" to conform with the language of 16 USC §3503(a) (the Coastal Barrier Resources Act). Although 16 USC §3503(a) allowed for the revision of the Coastal Barrier Resources System maps by the Secretary of the Interior, similar language was not included in §501.28(a) when the policies in §501.28(a) were first adopted. The Coastal Barrier Resources Act was amended in 2000 to clarify the authority under which those maps may be modified, revised, or corrected (Pub. L. 106-514, §3(d), November 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2394, 2395). The proposed amendment will make §501.28(a) consistent with 16 USC §3503(a), as amended.

The proposed amendment to §501.28(b) updates the statutory references applicable to the TCEQ's issuance of rules regarding the creation of special districts and for infrastructure projects funded by issuance of bonds by water, sanitary sewer, and wastewater drainage districts. Section 501.28(b) currently references Texas Water Code, Chapter 50, which was largely repealed in 1995 and replaced by Sections in Chapters 49 and 59 of the Texas Water Code, which contain statutes that authorize the TCEQ to approve the creation of special utility districts and the issuance of bonds (Acts 1995, 74th Legislature, Chapter 715, §2, effective September 1, 1995; Acts 1995, 74th Legislature, Chapter 715, §3, effective September 1, 1995). However, Chapter 50 still contains §50.107, which provides the TCEQ authority over the issuance of bonds. Accordingly, the proposed amendment adds references to Chapters 49 and 59, but does not delete the reference to Chapter 50. The proposed amendment to §501.28(b) also updates the reference to Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6663 et seq, to indicate that Article 6663, et seq. was repealed and codified in multiple Chapters in the Transportation Code, starting with Title 6, Chapter 201 (Acts 1995, 74th Legislature, Chapter 165, §1, effective September 1, 1995). Accordingly, the citation to Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6663 et seq is replaced with a citation to Transportation Code Chapter 201, et seq.

The proposed amendment to §501.31(b) updates the citations to Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6663b and 6663c, and Article 6674a et seq, governing transportation projects within the coastal zone. Texas Civil Statutes, Articles 6663b and 6663c were repealed in 1995 and codified in Texas Transportation Code §§455.001 - 455.004; 456.001 - 456.008; 456.021 - 456.026; and 456.042, while Texas Civil Statutes, Articles 6674a et seq. were repealed in 1995 and codified in Texas Transportation Code §221.001, et seq. (Acts 1995, 74th Legislature, Chapter 165, §1, effective September 1, 1995).

The proposed amendment to §501.33(a)(8) clarifies the reference to the "commission" by changing it to "TCEQ," which is defined as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in §501.3(c)(7).

The proposed amendment to §501.33(a)(12) updates the title of 30 TAC §295.9, as referenced in §501.33(a)(12). The TCEQ amended 30 TAC §295.9 effective February 21, 1999, changing the title of the rule to "Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plans" and changing the term "conservation plans" to "water conservation plans" within the rule (24 TexReg 969, February 12, 1999).

Pursuant to Texas Government Code §2001.0225, a regulatory analysis is not required for the proposed rulemaking as a "major environmental rule." The proposed rulemaking will not adversely affect, in a material way, the economy, a sector of the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, or the public health and safety of the state or a sector of the state. The proposed rulemaking does not exceed a standard set by federal law, does not exceed an express requirement of state law, does not exceed a requirement of a delegation agreement or contract between the state and an agency or representative of the federal government to implement a state or federal program, and is not adopted solely under the general powers of the Council.

The Council has evaluated the proposed rulemaking in accordance with Texas Government Code, §2007.043(b), and §2.18 of the Attorney General's Private Real Property Rights Preservation Act Guidelines and determined that a detailed takings impact assessment is not required. The proposed rulemaking does not affect private real property in a manner that requires real property owners to be compensated as provided by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 17 and 19, of the Texas Constitution. Furthermore, the proposed rulemaking would not affect any private real property in a manner that restricts or limits the owner's right to the property that would otherwise exist in the absence of the rule amendments. The proposed rulemaking will not result in a taking of private property and there are no adverse impacts on private real property interests.

Larry Laine, Chief Clerk of the General Land Office, has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended sections as proposed are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for the state or units of local government as a result of enforcing or administering the amended sections as the amendments constitute minor clarifications and updates to the rules.

Mr. Laine, has also determined that there will be no economic cost to persons required to comply with these regulations, as these amendments add no additional restrictions or requirements that did not already exist. The public will benefit from the proposed rule amendments because the amended rules will provide more clarity. There will be no effect on small businesses, and a local employment impact statement on these proposed regulations is not required, because the proposed regulations will not adversely affect any local economy in a material manner for the first five years they will be in effect.

To comment on the proposed rulemaking, please send a written comment to Walter Talley, Texas Register Liaison, Texas General Land Office, P.O. Box 12873, Austin, Texas 78711-2873, facsimile number (512) 463-6311 or e-mail to walter.talley@glo.state.tx.us. Comments must be received no later than 30 days from the date of publication of this proposal.

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

31 TAC §501.3

The amendments are proposed under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, including §33.051, which authorizes the Council and the Texas General Land Office to perform the duties provided in Chapter 33, Subchapter C; §33.052, which authorizes the commissioner to develop a continuing comprehensive CMP; §33.053, which sets out the elements of the CMP, including a description of the organizational structure for implementing and administering the CMP; §33.054, which allows the commissioner to review and amend the CMP as new information or changed conditions may warrant; and §33.204, which authorizes the Council to adopt goals and policies of the CMP by rule.

The proposed amendments are necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, Subchapters C and F.

§501.3.Definitions and Abbreviations.

(a) (No change.)

(b) The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings, with respect to CNRAs.

(1) (No change.)

(2) Coastal historic area--A site that is specially identified in rules adopted by the Texas Historical Commission as being coastal in character and that is:

(A) a site on the National Register of Historic Places, designated under 16 United States Code, §470a and 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter I, Part 63[ , Chapter 1 ]; or

(B) (No change.)

(3) - (4) (No change.)

(5) Coastal wetlands--Wetlands, as the term is defined by Texas Water Code, §11.502 [ §11.052 ], located:

(A) - (C) (No change.)

(6) (No change.)

(7) Critical erosion area-- Has the meaning assigned to the term "critical coastal erosion area" by Texas Natural Resources Code, §33.601(4). [ An area designated by the land commissioner under Texas Natural Resources Code, §33.601(b). ]

(8) - (15) (No change.)

(16) Water under tidal influence--Water in this state, as defined by Texas Water Code, §26.001(5), that is subject to tidal influence according to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality [ Natural Resource Conservation Commission's ] stream segment map. The term includes coastal wetlands.

(c) - (d) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 28, 2006.

TRD-200601854

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 7, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8598


Subchapter B. GOALS AND POLICIES

31 TAC §§501.10, 501.13, 501.16, 501.21, 501.23, 501.25, 501.28, 501.31, 501.33

The amendments are proposed under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, including §33.051, which authorizes the Council and the Texas General Land Office to perform the duties provided in Chapter 33, Subchapter C; §33.052, which authorizes the commissioner to develop a continuing comprehensive CMP; §33.053, which sets out the elements of the CMP, including a description of the organizational structure for implementing and administering the CMP; §33.054, which allows the commissioner to review and amend the CMP as new information or changed conditions may warrant; and §33.204, which authorizes the Council to adopt goals and policies of the CMP by rule.

The proposed amendments are necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, Subchapters C and F.

§501.10.Compliance with Goals and Policies.

(a) State agencies, municipalities, and counties identified in this subchapter shall comply with the goals and policies in this subchapter [ §§501.12-501.15 of this title (relating to Goals, Administrative Policies, and Policies for Specific Activities and Coastal Natural Resource Areas) ] when taking an action listed in §505.11 of this title (relating to Actions and Rules Subject to the Coastal Management Program) or §505.60 of this title (relating to Local Government Actions Subject to the Coastal Management Program).

(b) - (c) (No change.)

§501.13.Administrative Policies.

(a) Agency and subdivision rules and ordinances subject to §501.10 of this title (relating to Compliance with Goals and Policies) shall:

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(4) take into account the national interest as defined in the Texas Coastal Management Program Final Environmental Impact Statement, August 1996, Part II, Chapter 7. [ CMP Document, Chapter XX. ]

(b) (No change.)

§501.16.Policies for Construction of Electric Generating and Transmission Facilities.

(a) Construction of electric generating facilities and electric transmission lines in the coastal zone shall comply with the policies in this section.

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(4) Electric transmission lines to or on Coastal Barrier Resource System Units and Otherwise Protected Areas designated on maps dated October 24, 1990, as those maps may be modified, revised, or corrected, under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act, 16 United States Code Annotated, §3503, on coastal barriers shall:

(A) - (B) (No change.)

(b) The PUC shall comply with the policies in this section when issuing certificates of convenience and necessity and adopting rules under the [ Texas Civil Statutes, ] Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code §11.001, et seq., [ Article 1446c, ] governing construction of electric generating facilities, electric transmission lines, and associated facilities in the coastal zone.

§501.21.Policies for Discharge of Municipal and Industrial Wastewater to Coastal Waters.

(a) TCEQ rules shall:

(1) (No change.)

(2) provide for the assessment of water quality on a coastal watershed basis [ once every two years, ] as required by the Texas Water Code, §26.0135(d);

(3) - (5) (No change.)

(b) - (d) (No change.)

§501.23.Policies for Development in Critical Areas.

(a) (No change.)

(b) The TCEQ and the RRC shall comply with the policies in this section when issuing certifications and adopting rules under Texas Water Code, Chapter 26, and the Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 91, governing certification of compliance with surface water quality standards for federal actions and permits authorizing development affecting critical areas; provided that activities exempted from the requirement for a permit for the discharge of dredged or fill material, described in Code of Federal Regulations, Title 33, §323.4 and/or Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40, §232.3, including but not limited to normal farming, silviculture, and ranching activities, such as plowing, seeding, cultivating, minor drainage, and harvesting for the production of food, fiber, and forest products, or upland soil and water conservation practices, shall not be considered activities for which a certification is required. The GLO and the SLB shall comply with the policies in this section when approving oil, gas, or other mineral lease plans of operation or granting surface leases, easements, and permits and adopting rules under the Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapters 32, 33 and 51 - 53, and Texas Water Code, Chapter 61, governing development affecting critical areas on state submerged lands and private submerged lands, and when issuing approvals and adopting rules under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 221, [ Civil Statutes, Article 5421u, ] for mitigation banks operated by subdivisions of the state.

(c) - (d) (No change.)

§501.25.Policies for Dredging and Dredged Material Disposal and Placement.

(a) - (h) (No change.)

(i) The GLO and the SLB shall comply with the policies in this section when approving oil, gas, and other mineral lease plans of operation and granting surface leases, easements, and permits and adopting rules under the Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapters 32, 33, and 51 - 53, and Texas Water Code, Chapter 61, for dredging and dredged material disposal and placement. TxDOT shall comply with the policies in this subchapter when adopting rules and taking actions as local sponsor of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway under Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 51. [ Civil Statutes, Article 5415e-2. ] The TCEQ and the RRC shall comply with the policies in this section when issuing certifications and adopting rules under Texas Water Code, Chapter 26, and the Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 91, governing certification of compliance with surface water quality standards for federal actions and permits authorizing dredging or the discharge or placement of dredged material. The TPWD shall comply with the policies in this section when adopting rules at Chapter 57 of this title (relating to Fisheries) governing dredging and dredged material disposal and placement. The TPWD shall comply with the policies in subsection (h) of this section when adopting rules and issuing permits under Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, Chapter 86, governing the mining of sand, shell, marl, gravel, and mudshell.

§501.28.Policies for Development Within Coastal Barrier Resource System Units and Otherwise Protected Areas on Coastal Barriers.

(a) Development of new infrastructure or major repair of existing infrastructure within or supporting development within Coastal Barrier Resource System Units and Otherwise Protected Areas designated on maps dated October 24, 1990, as those maps may be modified, revised, or corrected, under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act, 16 United States Code Annotated, §3503(a), shall comply with the policies in this section.

(1) - (5) (No change.)

(b) TCEQ rules and approvals for the creation of special districts and for infrastructure projects funded by issuance of bonds by water, sanitary sewer, and wastewater drainage districts under Texas Water Code, Chapters 49, 50, and 59 [ Chapter 50 ]; water control and improvement districts under Texas Water Code, Chapter 50; municipal utility districts under Texas Water Code, Chapter 54; regional plan implementation agencies under Texas Water Code, Chapter 54; special utility districts under Texas Water Code, Chapter 65; stormwater control districts under Texas Water Code, Chapter 66; and all other general and special law districts subject to and within the jurisdiction of the TCEQ, shall comply with the policies in this section. TxDOT rules and approvals under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 201, et seq., [ Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6663 et seq, ] governing planning, design, construction, and maintenance of transportation projects, shall comply with the policies in this section.

§501.31.Policies for Transportation Projects.

(a) (No change.)

(b) TxDOT rules and project approvals under Texas Transportation Code §§455.001-455.004; 456.001-456.008; 456.021-456.026; and 456.042 and Texas Transportation Code §221.001, et seq. [ Civil Statutes, Article 6663b and 6663c, and Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6674a et seq, ] governing transportation projects within the coastal zone, shall comply with the policies in this section.

§501.33.Policies for Appropriations of Water.

(a) Impoundments and diversion of state water within 200 stream miles of the coast, to commence from the mouth of the river thence inland, shall comply with the policies in this section.

(1) - (7) (No change.)

(8) In its consideration of an application for a permit under this section, the TCEQ shall assess the effects, if any, of the issuance of the permit on water quality in coastal waters. In its consideration of an application for a permit to store, take, or divert water in excess of 5,000 acre feet per year, the TCEQ [ commission ] shall assess the effects, if any, on the issuance of the permit on fish and wildlife habitats and may require the applicant to take reasonable actions to mitigate adverse effects on such habitat. In determining whether to require an applicant to mitigate adverse effects on a habitat, the TCEQ may consider any net benefit to habitat produced by the project. The TCEQ shall offset against any mitigation required by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service pursuant to Code of Federal Regulations, Title 33, §§320 - 330, any mitigation authorized by this subchapter.

(9) - (11) (No change.)

(12) An applicant for a new or amended water right permit shall submit a water conservation plan in accordance with 30 TAC §295.9 (relating to Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plans [ Plan ]). The TCEQ shall consider the information contained in the water conservation plan in determining whether any feasible alternative to the proposed appropriation exists, whether the proposed amount to be appropriated as measured at the point of diversion is reasonable and necessary for the proposed use, the term and other conditions of the water right and to ensure that reasonable diligence will be used to avoid waste and achieve water conservation. Based upon its review, the TCEQ may deny or grant, in whole or in part, the requested appropriation.

(b) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 28, 2006.

TRD-200601849

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 7, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8598


Chapter 505. COUNCIL PROCEDURES FOR STATE CONSISTENCY WITH COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM GOALS AND POLICIES

The Coastal Coordination Council (Council) proposes amendments to 31 TAC, Part 16, Chapter 505, relating to Council Procedures for State Consistency With Coastal Management Program Goals and Policies, §505.11, relating to Actions and Rules Subject to the Coastal Management Program; §505.21, relating to Effect of Council Certification of Agency Rules and Rule Amendments; §505.22, relating to Consistency Required for New Rules and Rule Amendments Subject to the Coastal Management Program; §505.23, relating to Council Certification of Rules and Rule Amendments; §505.24, relating to Pre-Certification Review of Draft Rules or Draft Rule Amendments; §505.32, relating to Requirements for Referral of a Proposed Agency Action; §505.36, relating to Standard of Council Review of a Proposed Agency Action; §505.37, relating to Activities Pending Council Review of a Proposed Agency Action; and §505.50, relating to General Plans. The proposed amendments update citations and make minor editorial corrections. These rule amendments have been undertaken as a result of the comprehensive review of the Council's rules mandated by Texas Government Code §2001.039, and will ensure that the rules are clear, necessary, and updated.

The proposed amendment to §505.11(c), (d), (e)(4) and (5) corrects the titles of Subchapters B and C, and corrects the reference to the location of Subchapters B and C, which should be referenced as residing in the "chapter" rather than the "title."

The proposed amendment to §505.21 corrects the titles of §505.23 and §505.26, as referenced in §505.21.

The proposed amendment to §505.22(d) corrects the title of §505.24, as referenced in §505.22(d).

The proposed amendment to §505.23(a) corrects the title of §505.11, as referenced in §505.23(a).

The proposed amendment to §505.23(e) corrects the reference to Section "505.11" by adding a section symbol (§).

The proposed amendment to §505.24(a) corrects the title of §505.11, as referenced in §505.24(a).

The proposed amendment to §505.32(b) corrects the title of §505.26, as referenced in §505.32(b).

The proposed amendment to §505.36(b)(3) corrects the title of §505.26, as referenced in §505.36(b)(3).

The proposed amendment to §505.37 clarifies that the reference to §2001.054 of the Texas Administrative Procedure Act is in the Government Code.

The proposed amendment to §505.50(2) deletes the reference to the State Coastal Discharge Contingency Plan (Plan) because the General Land Office no longer has statutory authority to develop the Plan. The 78th Texas Legislature, Regular Session 2003, amended Texas Natural Resources Code §40.053 to delete all references to the Plan because the Legislature determined that it is not necessary to develop the Plan. Instead, as noted in the House Committee Report for Senate Bill 619, the General Land Office has participated with the U.S. Coast Guard in the development of Area Contingency Plans, which cover the entire Texas coast and serve the same purpose. The remaining paragraphs in §505.50 are renumbered accordingly.

The proposed amendment to §505.50(3) adds a reference to Subchapter G in Chapter 26 of the Texas Water Code, to more specifically identify the statutory authority for the State Oil and Hazardous Substance Spill Contingency Plan.

Pursuant to Texas Government Code §2001.0225, a regulatory analysis is not required for the proposed rulemaking as a "major environmental rule." The proposed rulemaking will not adversely affect, in a material way, the economy, a sector of the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, or the public health and safety of the state or a sector of the state. The proposed rulemaking does not exceed a standard set by federal law, does not exceed an express requirement of state law, does not exceed a requirement of a delegation agreement or contract between the state and an agency or representative of the federal government to implement a state or federal program, and is not adopted solely under the general powers of the Council.

The Council has evaluated the proposed rulemaking in accordance with Texas Government Code, §2007.043(b), and §2.18 of the Attorney General's Private Real Property Rights Preservation Act Guidelines and determined that a detailed takings impact assessment is not required. The proposed rulemaking does not affect private real property in a manner that requires real property owners to be compensated as provided by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 17 and 19, of the Texas Constitution. Furthermore, the proposed rulemaking would not affect any private real property in a manner that restricts or limits the owner's right to the property that would otherwise exist in the absence of the rule amendments. The proposed rulemaking will not result in a taking of private property and there are no adverse impacts on private real property interests.

Larry Laine, Chief Clerk of the General Land Office, has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended sections as proposed are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for the state or units of local government as a result of enforcing or administering the amended sections as the amendments constitute minor clarifications and updates to the rules.

Mr. Laine, has also determined that there will be no economic cost to persons required to comply with these regulations, as these amendments add no additional restrictions or requirements that did not already exist. The public will benefit from the proposed rule amendments because the amended rules will provide more clarity. There will be no effect on small businesses, and a local employment impact statement on these proposed regulations is not required, because the proposed regulations will not adversely affect any local economy in a material manner for the first five years they will be in effect.

To comment on the proposed rulemaking, please send a written comment to Walter Talley, Texas Register Liaison, Texas General Land Office, P.O. Box 12873, Austin, Texas 78711-2873, facsimile number (512) 463-6311 or e-mail to walter.talley@glo.state.tx.us. Comments must be received no later than 30 days from the date of publication of this proposal.

Subchapter A. PURPOSE AND POLICY AND STATE AGENCY ACTIONS SUBJECT TO THE COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

31 TAC §505.11

The amendments are proposed under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, including §33.051, which authorizes the Council and the Texas General Land Office to perform the duties provided in Chapter 33, Subchapter C; §33.052, which authorizes the commissioner to develop a continuing comprehensive CMP; §33.053, which sets out the elements of the CMP, including a description of the organizational structure for implementing and administering the CMP; §33.054, which allows the commissioner to review and amend the CMP as new information or changed conditions may warrant; §33.204, which authorizes the Council to adopt goals and policies of the CMP by rule; and §33.2052, which authorizes the Council, by rule, to establish a process by which an agency may submit rules and rule amendments to the Council for review and certification for consistency with the goals and policies of the CMP.

The proposed amendments are necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, Subchapters C and F.

§505.11.Actions and Rules Subject to the Coastal Management Program.

(a) - (b) (No change.)

(c) An agency's promulgation of rules governing or authorizing actions listed in subsection (a) or (b) of this section constitutes an action subject to the CMP as provided in Subchapter B of this chapter (relating to Council Review and Certification of [ State ] Agency Rules [ and Approval of Thresholds for Referral ]).

(d) An action to renew, amend, or modify an existing permit, certificate, lease, easement, approval or other action is not an action under this section if the action is taken pursuant to rules that the council has certified as consistent under Subchapter B of this chapter [ title ] (relating to Council Review and Certification of [ State ] Agency Rules [ and Approval of Thresholds for Referral ]) and:

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(e) Whenever more than one state agency is involved in issuing a consistency determination for a single project, consideration should be given to the preparation of one consistency determination for all state agencies involved.

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(4) The council may not protest a proposed action by an agency or subdivision pertaining to an application filed with that agency or subdivision prior to the effective date of Subchapter C of this chapter [ title ] (relating to Consistency and Council Review of Proposed State Agency Actions).

(5) The council shall not review actions listed in this subsection if such actions are taken pursuant to an enforcement order issued prior to the effective date of Subchapter C of this chapter [ title ] (relating to Consistency and Council Review of Proposed State Agency Actions).

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 28, 2006.

TRD-200601855

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 7, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8598


Subchapter B. COUNCIL REVIEW AND CERTIFICATION OF AGENCY RULES

31 TAC §§505.21 - 505.24

The amendments are proposed under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, including §33.051, which authorizes the Council and the Texas General Land Office to perform the duties provided in Chapter 33, Subchapter C; §33.052, which authorizes the commissioner to develop a continuing comprehensive CMP; §33.053, which sets out the elements of the CMP, including a description of the organizational structure for implementing and administering the CMP; §33.054, which allows the commissioner to review and amend the CMP as new information or changed conditions may warrant; §33.204, which authorizes the Council to adopt goals and policies of the CMP by rule; and §33.2052, which authorizes the Council, by rule, to establish a process by which an agency may submit rules and rule amendments to the Council for review and certification for consistency with the goals and policies of the CMP.

The proposed amendments are necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, Subchapters C and F.

§505.21.Effect of Council Certification of Agency Rules and Rule Amendments.

Upon the council's certification of an agency's rules pursuant to §505.20 of this title (relating to Council Review and Certification of Existing Agency Rules) or §505.23 of this title (relating to Certification of [ Proposed New ] Rules and Rule Amendments), the agency's rules are incorporated into the CMP goals and policies, and any threshold for referral approved pursuant to §505.26 of this title (relating to [ Council Review and ] Approval of Thresholds for Referral) relating to actions under those rules shall become operative and limit the council's authority to review individual actions of the agency, as provided in §505.32 of this title (relating to Requirements for Referral of a Proposed Agency Action). After an agency's rules are certified and an agency's thresholds are approved, the agency's consistency determination for an action is final and is not subject to referral and review, except as provided by §505.32 of this title (relating to Requirements for Referral of a Proposed Agency Action).

§505.22.Consistency Required for New Rules and Rule Amendments Subject to the Coastal Management Program.

(a) - (c) (No change.)

(d) In addition to pre-certification review pursuant to §505.24 of this title (relating to Pre-Certification Review of Draft Rules [ Rule ] or Draft Rule Amendments), an agency may seek clarification or resolution of consistency issues regarding the proposed rule or rule amendment by placing the matter on the agenda of the council or executive committee.

(e) (No change.)

§505.23.Council Certification of Rules and Rule Amendments.

(a) Upon adoption of a rule or rule amendment listed in §505.11(b) of this title (relating to Actions and Rules Subject to the Coastal Management Program ), the agency may seek certification from the council that the rule or rule amendment is consistent with the CMP goals and policies by filing a written Request for Certification with the council secretary. Along with the request, the agency shall provide a copy of the rule or rule amendment as adopted, copies of all public comments relating to consistency of the proposed rule or rule amendment, and any other information the agency wishes to provide. The council secretary shall distribute copies of the Request for Certification, including all supporting materials, to all council members.

(b) - (d) (No change.)

(e) Where council certification of a rule or rule amendment takes place after the effective date of a rule or rule amendment, the provisions of §505.32 of this title (relating to Requirements for Referral of a Proposed Agency Action) will be considered to be in effect to limit council review of an agency action listed in § 505.11(a) of this title provided:

(1) - (3) (No change.)

§505.24.Pre-Certification Review of Draft Rules or Draft Rule Amendments.

(a) Prior to the publication in the Texas Register of a proposed rule or rule amendment listed in §505.11(b) of this title (relating to Actions and Rules Subject to the Coastal Management Program ), an agency may seek pre-certification review by filing a Request for Pre-certification Review with the council secretary and attaching a copy of the draft rule or draft rule amendment and any information the agency wishes the council to consider. This request shall allow council members a minimum of 30 days to review and comment on the draft rule or rule amendment.

(b) - (d) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 28, 2006.

TRD-200601850

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 7, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8598


Subchapter C. CONSISTENCY AND COUNCIL REVIEW OF PROPOSED STATE AGENCY ACTIONS

31 TAC §§505.32, 505.36, 505.37

The amendments are proposed under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, including §33.051, which authorizes the Council and the Texas General Land Office to perform the duties provided in Chapter 33, Subchapter C; §33.052, which authorizes the commissioner to develop a continuing comprehensive CMP; §33.053, which sets out the elements of the CMP, including a description of the organizational structure for implementing and administering the CMP; §33.054, which allows the commissioner to review and amend the CMP as new information or changed conditions may warrant; §33.204, which authorizes the Council to adopt goals and policies of the CMP by rule; and §33.2052, which authorizes the Council, by rule, to establish a process by which an agency may submit rules and rule amendments to the Council for review and certification for consistency with the goals and policies of the CMP.

The proposed amendments are necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, Subchapters C and F.

§505.32.Requirements for Referral of a Proposed Agency Action.

(a) (No change.)

(b) If consistency review thresholds are in effect under §505.26 of this title (relating to [ Council Review and ] Approval of Thresholds for Referral), the council may not review a proposed action for consistency with the CMP goals and policies unless the requirements of subsection (a) of this section are satisfied and:

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(c) - (d) (No change.)

§505.36.Standard of Council Review of a Proposed Agency Action.

(a) (No change.)

(b) Following certification of an agency's rules as consistent with the CMP goals and policies pursuant to Subchapter B of this chapter:

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) any thresholds for referral approved pursuant to §505.26 of this title (relating to [ Council Review and ] Approval of Thresholds for Referral) shall become operative and limit the council's authority to review individual proposed actions of an agency as provided in §505.32 of this title (relating to Requirements for Referral of a Proposed Agency Action).

§505.37.Activities Pending Council Review of a Proposed Agency Action.

Pending council review of an individual agency proposed action, no person may conduct activities authorized by the agency action that would irreparably alter or damage the CNRA identified in the applicable policy, except as otherwise provided by the Texas Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code §2001.054.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 28, 2006.

TRD-200601851

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 7, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8598


Subchapter D. COUNCIL ADVISORY OPINIONS ON GENERAL PLANS

31 TAC §505.50

The amendments are proposed under Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, including §33.051, which authorizes the Council and the Texas General Land Office to perform the duties provided in Chapter 33, Subchapter C; §33.052, which authorizes the commissioner to develop a continuing comprehensive CMP; §33.053, which sets out the elements of the CMP, including a description of the organizational structure for implementing and administering the CMP; §33.054, which allows the commissioner to review and amend the CMP as new information or changed conditions may warrant; §33.204, which authorizes the Council to adopt goals and policies of the CMP by rule; and §33.2052, which authorizes the Council, by rule, to establish a process by which an agency may submit rules and rule amendments to the Council for review and certification for consistency with the goals and policies of the CMP.

The proposed amendments are necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 33, Subchapters C and F.

§505.50.General Plans.

General plans include any comprehensive statement in words, maps, illustrations, or other media issued by a state agency or political subdivision that recommends, proposes, evaluates, or formulates policies or future courses of action involving activities affecting coastal natural resource areas. For purposes of this section, general plans include, but are not limited to, the following:

(1) (No change.)

[(2) State Coastal Discharge Contingency Plan (Texas Natural Resources Code, §40.053);]

(2) [ (3) ] State Oil and Hazardous Substance Spill Contingency Plan (Texas Water Code, Chapter 26 , Subchapter G );

(3) [ (4) ] State-Owned Coastal Wetlands Conservation Plan (Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, §14.002(a));

(4) [ (5) ] State Water Quality Management Plan (Texas Water Code, §26.012);

(5) [ (6) ] Artificial Reef Plan (Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, §89.021);

(6) [ (7) ] State Water Plan (Texas Water Code, §16.051);

(7) [ (8) ] Long-Range Dredging and Disposal Plan (Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, §14.002(b)(8)); and

(8) [ (9) ] Regional Solid Waste Management Plans (Texas Health and Safety Code, §363.062).

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on March 28, 2006.

TRD-200601852

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 7, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 305-8598