In recognition of the economic benefit to the state of the Gulf Coast Intracoastal Waterway, this state shall act as the nonfederal sponsor of the main channel of the Gulf Coast Intracoastal Waterway from the Sabine River to the Brownsville Ship Channel in order to:

1. (1) support the marine commerce and economy of this state by providing for the shallow draft navigation of the state's coastal waters in an environmentally sound manner;
2. (2) prevent waste of publicly and privately owned natural resources;
3. (3) prevent or minimize adverse impacts on the environment; and
4. (4) maintain, preserve, and enhance wildlife and fisheries.

Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.

Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 191, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.