Water, broadband, state parks: Infrastructure investments in the works
This is a preview of our Texas 2036 newsletter that highlights Texas 2036-endorsed infrastructure legislative investments from the 88th Legislature. To receive this weekly look at our work, sign up here.
Investments in the Future of Texas: Infrastructure
Taking action: From improving water infrastructure and increasing broadband access to enhancing state parks and expanding the state’s energy portfolio, the 88th Legislature made a profound commitment to building the Texas of tomorrow.
Where we stood: Texas 2036 seized the opportunity presented by the unprecedented surplus to support investments in the state’s infrastructure.
- These efforts resulted in almost $5 billion in generational investments and a dozen bills that will generate long-term value.
Keep reading: Find our major infrastructure legislative highlights below.
Preparing for Water Needs 💧
Aimed towards repairing aging, deteriorating water systems and creating new water supplies, two new dedicated water funds are in the works thanks to a $1 billion investment.
- Senate Bill 28 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 by Sen. Perry, R-Lubbock, and Rep. T. King, D-Batesville, will provide long-term solutions to address challenges we will face as our state continues to grow.
▶️ Senior Policy Advisor Jeremy Mazur discusses the top legislative wins in water infrastructure.
Bridging the Digital Divide 🌐
$1.5 billion will support expansion of broadband internet service to underserved and unserved areas of the state through a dedicated fund.
- House Bill 9 and House Joint Resolution 125 by Rep. Ashby, R-Lufkin, Sen. Huffman, R-Houston, will help get the nearly three million Texas households without broadband internet access and the five million more who struggle with unreliable connections online.
▶️ Policy Analyst Mitrah Avini highlights the big accomplishments for broadband and space.
👉 Plus: Announced on Monday, Texas will receive $3.3 billion in federal broadband funds as part of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program.
▶️ Watch: Policy Advisor Rahul Sreenivasan breaks down the top legislative wins for infrastructure during the regular session.
- For more highlights of the major Texas 2036-supported bills, check out our YouTube channel.
Creating New State Parks 🏞️
To safeguard, improve and create new state parks as the state’s population continues to grow, the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund holds the potential to preserve and expand our natural landscapes for future generations.
- SB 1648 and SJR 74 by Sen. Parker, R-Flower Mound, and Rep. Walle, D-Houston, will be an economic driver as every $1 in public money spent on parks can generate between $4 and $12 in economic return.
▶️ Policy Advisor Rahul Sreenivasan spotlights the big takeaways for Texas state parks
Expanding More Energy Sources ⚡
Given the potential for hydrogen as part of Texas’ energy future, new legislation establishes a critical framework for the growth and development of this promising energy sector.
- HB 2847 by Rep. Darby, R-San Angelo, and Sen. Sparks, R-Midland, will help Texas remain the nation’s energy leader through its comprehensive approach to energy expansion.
Removing Barriers to Housing Growth 🏘
New efforts to reduce administrative barriers to housing construction will help the state address its housing shortage for middle-class Texans.
- HB 14 by Rep. Cody Harris, R-Palestine, and Sen. Bettencourt, R-Houston, will allow third parties like engineers and inspectors to review permitting and planning documents when cities are unable to do so within statutorily mandated timelines.
▶️ Policy Advisor Emily Brizzolara-Dove talks about the housing legislative successes.
More Infrastructure Investment Legislation 🚀
Other notable Texas 2036-supported legislation will:
✔️ Create the Texas Space Commission
✔️ Plan for our future of transportation with flying vehicles
✔️ Offset declining motor vehicle fuels tax payments by requiring electric vehicles to pay a registration fee, and more!
Talk to us, Texas! 📢
How are these investments in Texas’ infrastructure going to impact you?
Let us know in our short survey!
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