On May 23, 2025, the Texas Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs convened to discuss critical water supply issues affecting Webb County and the City of Laredo. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for a proposed water project aimed at addressing significant water shortages in the region, which could have far-reaching implications for both local residents and the broader Texas economy.

The proposed project, which involves a collaborative effort between Webb County, the City of Laredo, the Legacy Municipal Management District, and the Legacy Water Supply Corporation, aims to provide essential water resources for over 330,000 people. During the discussions, it was emphasized that the project would not negatively impact existing groundwater conservation districts or other water projects, as the wells involved are located far from any county lines or other wells.

Senator Lehi raised concerns about the potential risks associated with water shortages, noting that the land port in Laredo is crucial for the Texas supply chain, with approximately 60-70% of the state's supply chain passing through it. The senator underscored that a crisis in Laredo would have repercussions not only for local residents but also for Texans and Americans at large.

The committee also discussed the consequences of not passing the bill. Without the project, Laredo and surrounding areas like Cameron and El Paso would remain dependent on the Rio Grande River, facing ongoing water shortages. The situation is already critical, with the governor having declared a water emergency in Webb County due to these shortages.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the pressing need for the proposed water project to ensure a reliable water supply for Webb County and to support the vital economic activities that depend on it. As the committee moves forward, the implications of their decisions will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders across Texas.