Texas water association Legislative agenda

Legislative Agenda for the 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.

See a summary of Key Water Infrastructure Investments and Policy Changes from the 89th Legislature

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

• Water Infrastructure Needs by House & Senate District
• Texas Water Association Legislative Preview (Slides from webinar on 1/21/2025)
• Investing in Water Infrastructure Fact Sheet
• Investing in Water Infrastructure + About Texas Water Association
• Texas Water Association Legislative Agenda 
• Texas Water Fund Programs at a Glance

Get the Latest Updates with TWA's Legislative News Service