November 27, 2012 — Austin, Texas
Policy
Are the Tides Turning? Funding Texas’ State Water Plan
In less than two months, the Texas Legislature will convene in Austin with a full agenda. Given the focus on finances, the issue of sufficient water for our state will likely be a key part of the economic discussion as noted by Speaker Joe Straus when he spoke at a Power Across Texas luncheon this past summer. Click here to read.
All eyes will be on the Texas Water Development Board’s 2012 State Water Plan. The landmark report, which is based on input from 16 regional water plans, proposes legislative recommendations that address the water needs of all users—municipal, agricultural, manufacturers and electric utilities.
The challenge facing Texas and lawmakers is how to fund the $53 million in proposed water projects. Because abundant water resources are essential to economic development, the Texas Association of Business (TABC) recently came out in favor of a $1.50 monthly fee on every water meter in the state to help fund the Texas State Water Plan. Because of the importance of water to energy production, others have suggested adding a fee to electric transmission line charges. More revenue proposals are expected to surface as the legislative session unfolds.
Click here to read an informative article on the energy-water relationship in Texas.
People
The Big Fish: Key Public Players in State Water Policy
Water is one of the most complex public policy issues facing Texas so it’s not surprising that multiple agencies, committees and leaders are involved in policy development.
Here are some of the key public players to watch:
: Authors of the State Water Plan.
: Involved in fracking issues.
: Chaired by Troy Fraser (R-Horseshoe Bay), the committee has jurisdiction over water policy and several interim charges on water issues.
Chaired by Rep. Allan Ritter, the committee has jurisdiction over water issues and several interim charges on water.
Programming
Power Across Texas: Helping You Navigate the Legislative Waters
With early filing already underway, several water-related bills have been dropped in the hopper—and many more are expected. Power Across Texas well understands the strong interconnection between energy and water issues and will continue to monitor the issue closely. You can continue to count on Power Across Texas to provide timely, balanced, insightful information on the issues that matter to you.
Look out for a series of informative white papers on key energy issues. These white papers will soon be available for download for Power Across Texas members and can be used to educate new legislators and their staff about the complex energy issues facing the State of Texas.
entitled “Water and the Law,” which was held during the 2012 Texas Tribune Festival.
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