Michelle Risco outlines key Texas water legislation priorities during legislative session

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) convened a Drinking Water Advisory Work Group (DWAWG) meeting on April 15, 2025, to discuss critical legislative developments affecting water supply and infrastructure in the state. The meeting highlighted the significant volume of legislative activity, with nearly 11,000 bills filed, of which approximately 200 are being closely monitored by the TCEQ's water supply division.

Michelle Risco, the deputy director for the water supply division, emphasized that this legislative session is particularly focused on water issues, a sentiment echoed by state leaders, including the governor. The TCEQ is tracking 97 bills that directly impact water supply, underscoring the importance of legislative decisions on water management and infrastructure funding.

A key topic of discussion was Senate Bill 7, which proposes continuous funding for water infrastructure through the Texas Water Fund. This initiative aims to ensure stable financial support for water projects, akin to the established funding mechanisms for road infrastructure in Texas. Continuous funding is seen as vital for addressing compliance costs and accommodating the state's ongoing growth.

The meeting also addressed the need for improved transparency and communication regarding boil water notices, which are a frequent concern for the public. Proposed legislation aims to expedite notification processes, ensuring that communities are informed promptly about water quality issues.

Additionally, the group discussed the implications of cybersecurity for public water systems, highlighting the need for robust security measures to protect water infrastructure from potential threats. The TCEQ is actively working to inform water entities about available resources to enhance their cybersecurity protocols.

Other legislative topics included water conservation strategies, the management of water rates, and the testing of drinking water for contaminants such as lead and PFAS. The discussions reflect a growing awareness of the challenges posed by climate change, droughts, and the need for sustainable water management practices.

In conclusion, the TCEQ's DWAWG meeting underscored the critical nature of legislative actions on water supply and infrastructure in Texas. As the session progresses, the outcomes of these discussions will have lasting implications for water management and public health across the state. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as these legislative measures evolve.