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.
Impact
The failure of Mexico to deliver agreed-upon water allocations as outlined in the 1944 Treaty poses a significant threat to Texas’s agricultural production and water security. The situation has led to decreasing water levels in critical reservoirs like Amistad and Falcon, affecting not just irrigation for crops, but also municipal water supply. Economic implications are severe, as there have been reports of increased costs for rural municipalities, loss of agricultural production, and even permanent closures of businesses reliant on sugar processing due to water shortages. This resolution is seen as a necessary step to urge federal action on an increasingly urgent issue.
Summary
HCR77 is a concurrent resolution calling on the U.S. Department of State and the International Boundary and Water Commission to ensure that Mexico adheres to the stipulations of the 1944 Treaty related to the shared water resources of the Rio Grande. Texas has expressed significant concerns regarding Mexico's chronic failure to meet its water delivery obligations, resulting in a considerable arrearage that has negatively impacted local agriculture and water availability in Texas, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley. The resolution seeks to address ongoing deficiencies in water delivery that have exacerbated socio-economic challenges for many Texans dependent on this shared water source.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR77 appears to be one of urgency and frustration among Texas lawmakers, particularly as the impacts of water shortages become more pronounced. Proponents see the resolution as a legitimate call for accountability and compliance from Mexico regarding the 1944 Treaty. However, there is likely underlying tension given the necessity of international cooperation and the historical context of U.S.-Mexico relations on water management issues, especially in times of drought and climate variability.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the debate over how effectively the United States can enforce water delivery compliance under the 1944 Treaty. While advocates for HCR77 assert that federal engagement is critical to alleviate Texas's water crisis, skeptics may raise concerns about the effectiveness of U.S. diplomatic efforts in this regard. There could also be apprehensions about the diplomatic ramifications this resolution may have on U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly in the context of border relations and resource management.
Identical
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.
Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.
Reaffirming an unwavering commitment to the shrimping industry and urging the Secretary of the United States Department of Commerce to issue a fishery resource disaster determination for fisheries along the Gulf of Mexico.