The Senate Committee on Finance convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss critical water infrastructure funding in Texas, focusing on a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at ensuring consistent financial support for water supply initiatives. The meeting highlighted the urgent need to address the state's water supply challenges, particularly as population growth intensifies pressure on existing resources.

A key point of discussion was the importance of dedicating funds to water supply rather than solely addressing issues like leaking pipes. The committee emphasized that while fixing leaks is necessary, it represents only a small fraction of the overall water supply needs. Currently, Texas uses approximately 15 million acre-feet of water annually, with leaks accounting for about 3% of that usage. The potential savings from fixing leaks would yield only around 400,000 acre-feet, which is less than 6% of the total supply needs.

Senate Bill 7 and House Joint Resolution 7 are designed to prioritize funding for water supply initiatives, with a proposed allocation of one billion dollars annually starting in 2028. This funding is seen as crucial for maintaining Texas's economic growth and addressing long-term water supply needs. The committee acknowledged that negotiations will continue as the bill moves through the legislative process, but there is a strong commitment to ensuring that the majority of funds are directed toward enhancing water supply.

The discussions underscored the urgency of the situation, with committee members warning that failure to act could result in missed opportunities to secure Texas's water future. The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions, indicating a willingness to engage further on the specifics of the proposed funding and its implications for the state's water infrastructure.