The 88th meeting of the Texas Legislature is well underway and could potentially have a great impact on the future of water in Texas. After experiencing almost continuous multi-year droughts during the past decade, our state government appears to be interested in making long term investments in water infrastructure. Over the past 20 plus years, state assistance in water projects have been centered around low interest loans to individual communities. While this practice has been beneficial to local communities, it has limited more regional large-scale projects.
It now appears that there now is some interest in expanding those efforts beyond just loans.
Most members of Texas Desal are aware of Texas efforts over the past 2 years in regard to studying the potential of “Produced Water”. That favorable report has given momentum to the next steps in the process and a request for additional funds to continue the efforts to explore the potential of this resource. Senator Charles Perry, author of the original “Produced Water study” legislation will be seeking an additional $5 Million to continue and expand the efforts of the Produced Water Consortium. While nothing is for certain at this time, Senator Perry’s level of interest and focus on this issue certainly increases the chances of ultimate success.
There are also efforts on a larger more comprehensive scale to supply water to a growing Texas. Senator Perry and Representative Tracy King have filed legislation in both the House and the Senate to create the “Water for Texas” fund. SB 837 and HB 2483 (identical) will provide additional financial resources to the Texas Water Development Board to address infrastructure repair (leaky pipes) and the development of new water, reuse and desalination (brackish and marine). The amount and focus of this commitment is unprecedented and, if passed, will indicate a level of support for expanded water infrastructure in Texas not seen in many years. We applaud Senator Perry and Representative King on their efforts to invest in the long-term water infrastructure in Texas. The Texas Desalination Association is looking forward to assist both Senator Perry and Representative King in these efforts to supply Texas with this much needed resource.