Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Lubbock, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has signed Senate Bill 7 and House Joint Resolution 7 into law, delivering what he called the largest generational investment in Texas’ water infrastructure. The signing ceremony took place in Lubbock at SIMFLO, a local water technology manufacturer, and was attended by lawmakers, industry leaders, and more than 150 water sector professionals.
Watch the Governor’s full bill signing ceremony here.
The legislation allocates a historic $20 billion toward improving and expanding water infrastructure across the state. The funds will be used both to repair aging water systems and to develop new water supply projects. Governor Abbott emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative, stating that it would secure Texas’ water future for generations.
“This law written by Chairman Perry and Chairman Harris does just that,” said Governor Abbott. “Providing a $20 billion generational investment for both new water supply and for the repairing of existing infrastructure.”
Speaker Dustin Burrows echoed the importance of the legislation, pointing out that it is essential not only for ensuring access to water but also for supporting economic development and job creation across Texas. “This legislation will not only help secure Texans’ access to water, it will support continued economic growth and job creation across our state,” Burrows said.
Senator Charles Perry described the initiative as a critical step in preparing the state for the future. “This legislation ensures our children and grandchildren have access to the water supply needed to keep our communities strong and our economy thriving,” he said.
Chairman Cody Harris highlighted the urgency of upgrading the state’s water systems, citing Texas’ rapid population growth. “Texas is growing fast, and our water supply isn’t keeping up,” Harris said. “Senate Bill 7 and HJR 7 are Texas-sized investments that put us on a path to strengthen the state’s water system.”
Senate Bill 7 designates the Texas Water Development Board as the lead agency responsible for managing the state’s water supply projects. The law expands the New Water Supply for Texas Fund and provides direction for long-term planning and coordination of statewide water conveyance systems.
House Joint Resolution 7 introduces a constitutional amendment that earmarks a portion of the state’s sales and use taxes—$1 billion annually—for the newly created Texas Water Fund. This dedicated funding stream is intended to ensure the sustainability of future water infrastructure investments.
Governor Abbott previously declared water infrastructure investment an emergency legislative item during his 2025 State of the State Address. With the signing of this legislation, the state takes a significant step toward addressing both current and long-term water challenges, while supporting continued population growth, business investment, and community resilience.
