Texas House Bill HJR103

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the water infrastructure resiliency fund and the critical infrastructure resiliency fund to assist in the financing of certain infrastructure projects.

Impact

The establishment of these funds is intended to finance localized improvements and necessary upgrades to the state's critical infrastructure. The Texas Water Development Board will have the authority to administer the Water Infrastructure Resiliency Fund, utilizing it without further appropriation for specific projects aimed at bolstering water supply systems. Meanwhile, the Critical Infrastructure Resiliency Fund will be managed by the Texas Division of Emergency Management, which will direct funds toward upgrading the electric grid, implementing micro-grids, and ensuring the reliability of emergency communication lines.

Summary

HJR103 proposes a constitutional amendment in Texas aimed at creating two special funds: the Water Infrastructure Resiliency Fund and the Critical Infrastructure Resiliency Fund. The primary objective of the bill is to assist in financing certain infrastructure projects crucial for weatherizing and hardening existing water and wastewater systems, as well as enhancing the state's electric grid and emergency communication networks. These initiatives are particularly relevant in the context of climate resilience and the need for robust infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather events.

Contention

While the bill addresses pressing issues related to infrastructure resilience, discussions surrounding HJR103 might focus on how these funds will be prioritized and allocated. Notable points of contention may arise regarding the management of the funds, potential bureaucratic inefficiencies in allocation, and whether all communities will benefit equally. Additionally, the effectiveness of localized improvements and the balance between state and local governance in managing infrastructure projects could be key issues as stakeholders evaluate the bill.