Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

Which statement best describes the role of the 1929 Small Bill Act?

1. It protected small landowners from large corporations

2. It transferred some rights of stream beds to landowners

3. It restricted land use for environmental protections

4. It established regulations for mining activities

The correct answer is: It transferred some rights of stream beds to landowners

The statement that the 1929 Small Bill Act transferred some rights of stream beds to landowners accurately captures one of the key elements of this legislation. This act was significant because it recognized the rights of landowners concerning the ownership and use of the land adjacent to bodies of water, particularly in relation to stream beds. By granting these rights, the act aimed to clarify the ownership and control of water resources and their adjacent lands, which was particularly important as water usage and rights can often lead to disputes among various parties. This transfer of rights was meant to empower local landowners, allowing them greater autonomy and influence over natural resources that directly affected their property. Understanding this context helps to appreciate the act's impact on property rights and land management during that era, which aimed to balance interests between individual landowners and larger corporate entities or the state. The other options, while they may touch on relevant issues concerning land and resource management, do not accurately represent the primary focus and intent of the Small Bill Act.