Texas lawmakers push for new water supply funding amid infrastructure crisis

Texas lawmakers are pushing for urgent action on water supply issues, emphasizing the need for new funding to address the state's growing water crisis. During a recent Senate Committee on Finance meeting, key stakeholders voiced their support for House Joint Resolution 7 (HJR 7), which aims to secure dedicated funding for new water supply projects.

Trace Finley, president of the Texas Independent Produced Water Association, highlighted the critical role of produced water management, noting that Texas generates approximately 700 million gallons of produced water annually. He stressed that if treated properly, this water could significantly replenish local water bodies, such as Lake Austin, every month. "We have a great resource," Finley stated, urging the committee to prioritize new water supply initiatives.

Vanessa Puig Williams from the Environmental Defense Fund echoed these sentiments, advocating for the protection of rural groundwater resources. She emphasized that funding for new projects should not come at the expense of existing groundwater supplies, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on these resources. "Rural groundwater needs to stay in rural Texas," she asserted.

Jeremy Mazur from Texas 2036 presented a stark overview of the state's water infrastructure challenges, estimating a staggering $154 billion price tag over the next 50 years to address both water supply and aging infrastructure issues. He noted that existing funding sources would only cover about 25% of this need, leaving a significant funding gap. "The dedicated revenue stream in HJR 7 will put the state on track towards closing this long-term funding gap," Mazur explained.

The committee also discussed the balance of funding allocation, with some members advocating for a more flexible approach to address both new water supply and infrastructure repair needs. Sarah Kircle from the Texas Water Association pointed out that only 7% of the state's water needs are eligible for funding under the new water supply program, urging for continued flexibility in fund allocation.

As Texas grapples with increasing drought conditions and a growing population, the discussions at this meeting underscore the urgency for comprehensive water management strategies. The proposed HJR 7 could be a pivotal step in securing the necessary resources to ensure a sustainable water future for the state.