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Texas Legislature

89th Texas Legislative Session

Population growth, extreme weather, and economic development needs are placing significant pressure on the state's already aging water, wastewater, and flood infrastructure. Texas water providers are working overtime to repair and expand systems for the benefit of current and future Texans, even as water projects become more costly and complex. To address these challenges, investment in Texas water infrastructure was Texas Water Association’s priority issue during the 89th legislative session.

The 89th Legislature was among the biggest water sessions in Texas history. The passage of House Joint Resolution (HJR) 7 (Harris/Perry) culminated nearly 30 years of efforts by Texas water leaders to establish a dedicated revenue source to fund water infrastructure. If approved by voters, HJR 7 will result in $20 billion for Texas communities to finance water supply, wastewater, and flood infrastructure projects. 

View TWA's 89th Legislative Recap Presentation

View the Infrastructure and Policy Summary


View TWA's 89th Legislative Wrap Up




TWA’s Executive Director Stacey Alllison Steinbach and Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs Sarah Kirkle, along with other key stakeholders, were honored to be invited by Governor Abbott to attend the bill signing of SB 7 (Perry/Harris) in Lubbock on June 18.


89th Agenda and Issues

PRIORITY ISSUE: Investment in Texas Water Infrastructure  

  • Leverage dedicated funding and/or a one-time infusion of dollars
  • Support water and wastewater needs through the Texas Water Fund* 
  • Address flood needs through the Flood Infrastructure Fund 

*The Texas Water Fund provides the most flexibility for the Texas Water Development Board to address the state’s significant water and wastewater needs

Passed as H.J.R. 7 (Harris/Perry) and S.B. 7 (Perry/Harris) 

Texas Water Association also supports:

  • Extending loan repayment terms for certain water infrastructure projects to help communities finance larger, more expensive projects, especially in high-growth areas  Passed as S.B. 1261 (Perry/Gerdes)
  • Funding to update water availability model data in certain river basins to inform decision making on new water right applications  Not introduced
  • Establishing and funding a Groundwater Science & Research Fund at the Texas Water Development Board to enhance groundwater data and planning capabilities Introduced as H.B. 1400 (Harris/Kolkhorst) but funded as a budget rider 
  • Funding to replenish the Ag. Water Conservation Grant/Loan Program, as requested in the Texas Water Development Board’s Legislative Appropriations Request  The program is now eligible for funding from the Texas Water Fund, per S.B. 7 (Perry/Harris)

89th Educational Resources

Get the Latest Updates with TWA's Legislative News Service

The Texas Water Association's Legislative News Service is the premiere source for water policy and legislative news. You’ll benefit from our water policy expertise and the breadth of our policy coverage to stay ahead of the legislation that impacts your organization and operations. 

 

Texas Water Association | 4401 Westgate Blvd., Ste 320, Austin, Texas 78745

info@texaswaterassociation.org  I  (512) 472-7216

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