Sec. 490E.004.  FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES.  (a)  The task force may:
(1)  assess the economic impact on the state of federal, state, or local regulations relating to endangered species;
(2)  assist landowners and other persons in this state to identify, evaluate, and implement cost-efficient strategies for mitigation of impacts to and recovery of endangered species that will promote economic growth and development in this state; and
(3)  facilitate state and local governmental efforts to effectively implement endangered species regulations in a cost-efficient manner.
(b)  If requested by a local government or a state official, the task force may review state and local governmental efforts to address endangered species issues and provide recommendations to make those efforts more cost effective.  The task force shall consider all available options as part of its recommendations.  The options considered must include:
(1)  fee simple acquisition of land;
(2)  conservation easements;
(3)  use of land owned by local governments or this state;
(4)  recovery crediting; and
(5)  all relevant federal programs.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 886 (S.B. 2534), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.