By Representative Trent Ashby
Early voting is underway across Texas and will continue through Friday, October 30, with Election Day scheduled for Tuesday, November 3. Exercising our right to vote is one of the most important civic responsibilities we share as Americans, and participating in the election process is an opportunity to make our voices heard. Whether you plan to vote early or on Election Day, I encourage you to take a few minutes to make a plan before heading to the polls. The Texas Secretary of State’s website, www.VoteTexas.gov, is a helpful resource where you can check your voter registration status, find early voting and Election Day polling locations, and review important voting information.
Earlier this month, the Texas House Committee on Natural Resources convened in El Paso for an interim hearing focused on one of the most important challenges facing our state: securing a reliable water supply for future generations. As Texas continues to grow, so does the demand for water to support our homes, businesses, agricultural operations, and industries. Meeting these needs will require thoughtful planning, continued investment, and innovative approaches to developing new water resources.
A major focus of the hearing was exploring opportunities to expand Texas’ water supply through new technologies, infrastructure investments, and alternative water sources. Committee members heard testimony regarding the feasibility of projects eligible for funding through the New Water Supply for Texas Fund, as well as the financial, technical, and regulatory challenges that can prevent these projects from moving forward.
These discussions build upon significant investments made by the Texas Legislature to address our state’s long-term water needs. During the 89th Legislative Session, lawmakers approved legislation that, along with voter approval of Proposition 4 in November 2025, established a dedicated funding stream for the Texas Water Fund. This measure directs up to $1 billion annually in existing state sales tax revenue over a 20-year period, potentially providing $20 billion to support water projects across Texas. These resources will help finance the development of new water supplies while also addressing aging water infrastructure in communities large and small.
Among the strategies considered were desalination, water reuse, and other innovative technologies that could help make better use of available resources while reducing pressure on traditional water supplies. The committee also examined obstacles that can delay projects, including construction costs, regulatory requirements, and long-term planning challenges. Addressing these barriers will be important to ensuring that available funding translates into meaningful improvements to our state’s water infrastructure.
Of course, water needs vary significantly across Texas. What works for a rapidly growing metropolitan area may not be the right solution for a rural community. In East and Southeast Texas, our abundant natural resources are a tremendous asset, but responsible water management and infrastructure planning remain essential to supporting agriculture, economic development, and the quality of life we enjoy.
As we prepare for the next legislative session, the information gathered during interim hearings will help guide discussions about future water policy and investments. I remain committed to supporting practical, fiscally responsible solutions that strengthen our water infrastructure, protect East and Southeast Texas resources, and ensure rural communities have a seat at the table.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762, and my Capitol office at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will post regular updates on what’s happening at your State Capitol and share information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
