A proposed law that would allow the port to flex new development powers remained in discussions Friday, days after a tense hearing on the state stage. At its crux: whether the Port of Corpus Christi Authority should be allowed to broaden its development options beyond what is now permitted under state law – solely development to facilitate navigational and maritime commerce. The distinct lines of how the bill is perceived were well-illustrated in a committee hearing at the Texas House of Representatives on Tuesday. On one side, proponents have pointed to the bill as an opportunity for new port investment, promoted as a means to diversify the port's portfolio as well as benefit specific economically disadvantaged areas.