AUSTIN (Nexstar) – Legislation aimed at enhancing our state’s water supply is now on its way to Gov. Greg Abbott. However, the ultimate decision regarding this multi-billion dollar initiative lies with Texas voters.
On Friday night, the Texas Senate approved House amendments to Senate Bill 7. This bill proposes allocating $1 billion in sales tax revenue annually to the Texas Water Fund for the next two decades. These resources could finance various water infrastructure projects, including repairs to aging systems, construction of desalination plants, and expansion of water supplies in our drought-affected state.
The nonprofit Texas 2036 projects that over the next 50 years, the state will require more than $150 billion to accommodate increasing demand. Their findings were referenced by supporters of the bill, who highlighted the significant economic consequences of neglecting water policy.
“If Texas lacks adequate water or if we continue to face issues stemming from outdated and deteriorating drinking water and wastewater systems, we could face a multi-billion dollar setback to the state’s economy,” stated Jeremy Mazur, the Director of Infrastructure and Natural Resources Policy for Texas 2036.
Mazur pointed out that the report indicated potential annual losses of $165 billion in GDP and economic damages due to inadequate water infrastructure.
Abbott has prioritized water investment in the 89th Legislative Session. While he is anticipated to sign the legislation, there is an essential final step to bring the plan to fruition. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Texas Constitution, which means Texas voters must greenlight a proposition in an election scheduled for this November for the funding to be activated.
Mazur is hopeful that Texas voters will approve the measure, citing the robust backing that enabled the passage of a 2023 proposition establishing the Texas Water Fund.
“At Texas 2036, we observe that water is a politically favorable issue,” Mazur remarked. “Our polling indicates strong majorities among both Republicans and Democrats in favor of state investments in water infrastructure. Therefore, we are optimistic about the outcome of this proposition in November.”