IMPACT SNAPSHOT:

Water as a Priority for the Texas Legislature

The first Texas House Water Caucus initiated in 2023 during the 88th Legislative Session. Texas Water Foundation was proud to serve as the organization providing educational resources and support to the caucus. From its initial goal of 35 members, the Water Caucus finished with 73 members from the Texas House and a legislative session that made history with the creation of the Texas Water Fund and a $1 billion initial appropriation, put before the voters as Proposition 6 and approved by wide margins in November 2023. 

This long-awaited investment laid the foundation for a historic shift in water infrastructure funding.

With a commitment to informed leadership, a reputation of trust, and with subject matter expertise at hand, TWF worked with partners and experts across the sector to continue the conversation about water infrastructure funding needs. This collaborative effort throughout 2024 set the stage for an increased prioritization of water in 2025, culminating in the declaration of water infrastructure funding as an emergency item by Governor Greg Abbott early in the 89th Legislative Session. 

TWF continued our support of the Texas Water Caucus in 2025 as it grew to include Senators and increased its membership to 84, providing six targeted educational sessions, and maintaining an online portal of educational resources for caucus members and staff. The most important role, however, was serving as an ongoing and regular educational resource to Water Caucus members and their staff throughout Session, keeping them informed, helping to understand water legislation and the budget, and connecting them with subject matter expertise. 

The 89th Legislative Session culminated in the approval of SB 7 (Sen. Charles Perry) and HJR 7 (Rep. Cody Harris), historic legislation that creates the first constitutionally dedicated funding for water infrastructure. This legislation will go before the voters in November 2025. Click here for a more detailed recap and statistics from the 89th Texas Legislature.

BY THE NUMBERS

BACK TO IMPACT DASHBOARD