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HCR 77

Urging the U.S. Department of State and the United States Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission to take appropriate action to ensure that Mexico complies with the 1944 Treaty regarding shared water resources.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Terry Canales and 8 co-sponsors

Texas urges federal enforcement of the 1944 Water Treaty to ensure Mexico delivers required water allocations to the Rio Grande and Colorado Rivers.

Laid on the table subject to call
#departmentofstate #us(vi20q) #internationalboundary&watercommission(v0225) #resolutions--legislativepolicy(i0685) #water--rights(i0870)
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Bill Summary · HCR 77

Legislative bill overview

HCR 77 is a non-binding resolution urging the U.S. Department of State and the International Boundary and Water Commission to enforce Mexico's compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty, which governs the distribution of water from the Rio Grande and Colorado Rivers between the two nations. The resolution specifically addresses concerns that Mexico has not been delivering its required water allocations to the United States.

Why is this important

Water rights along the Texas-Mexico border are economically critical for agriculture, municipalities, and drinking water supplies affecting millions of people in Texas. Disputes over treaty compliance can escalate regional tensions and impact bilateral relations while directly affecting the livelihoods of border communities dependent on these shared water resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Diplomatic sensitivity: Pressuring Mexico through unilateral legislative action may complicate ongoing negotiations and strain U.S.-Mexico relations rather than resolve the underlying water delivery shortfall
  • Competing claims on water allocation: Both nations face severe drought conditions; Mexico argues it faces physical impossibility in meeting obligations, while Texas prioritizes its agricultural and municipal needs
  • Enforceability questions: The resolution is non-binding, so its practical effect depends on State Department willingness to take action—unclear whether it represents consensus on remedy strategies

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

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