What is the purpose of the "small bill" in relation to land?

The purpose of the "small bill" is primarily to validate ownership of lands across navigable streams. This legal provision is significant because navigable streams are often subject to different rules regarding ownership and usage compared to non-navigable waters. The "small bill" helps clarify property rights and ensures that ownership is recognized, promoting security in land tenure, especially for those who own or claim land adjacent to such streams. In Texas, this is particularly relevant because property lines can be complicated by the presence of water bodies, where the recognized boundaries may shift due to natural changes in the stream or river.

Understanding this context clarifies why this option is the correct answer, as it highlights the legal framework that governs land ownership in relation to navigable waters, a critical aspect of land surveying in Texas.