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HB 1400

Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Cody Harris and 9 co-sponsors

HB 1400 creates a groundwater research and innovation fund administered by Texas's Water Development Board to support scientific studies addressing the state's groundwater challenges.

Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs
#specialdistricts&authorities--groundwaterconservedist.(i0013) #statefinances--management&control(i0748) #waterdevelopmentboard #texas(v2481) #water--development(i0875) #water--general(i0885)
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Bill Summary · HB 1400

Legislative bill overview

HB 1400 establishes a dedicated groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be managed by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). The fund would support research projects, studies, and technological innovations focused on understanding and managing Texas's groundwater resources more effectively.

Why is this important

Texas faces significant groundwater challenges, including aquifer depletion in regions like the Ogallala Aquifer and increasing competition for limited water resources among agricultural, municipal, and industrial users. Dedicated funding for groundwater research could improve water management strategies, develop conservation technologies, and inform long-term water policy decisions critical to the state's economic and agricultural viability.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and amount: The bill's specific appropriation level and whether it comes from general revenue, water fees, or other sources is not detailed in available information, raising questions about fiscal impact and competing budget priorities
  • TWDB capacity and oversight: Questions about whether TWDB has sufficient administrative capacity to effectively manage a new fund and whether there are adequate accountability measures for research outcomes and spending
  • Research prioritization: Disagreement over which groundwater issues receive priority funding (agricultural sustainability vs. municipal supply vs. environmental protection) and whether funding benefits certain regions or interests disproportionately

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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