HJR 7 – Billions in new constitutional spending

HJR 7 seeks to constitutionally earmark up to $1 billion per year from state sales tax revenue for the Texas Water Fund. While water infrastructure is important, this measure removes large sums from the general revenue fund limiting legislative flexibility. It represents a long-term commitment of taxpayer dollars without sufficient legislative oversight. By constitutionally dedicating funds, lawmakers reduce the legislature’s ability to prioritize spending annually based on changing needs. The lack of reforms or spending guardrails on the Water Fund also raises concerns about transparency and efficiency. With the state’s history of under-delivering on accountability in large infrastructure funds, this amendment risks growing government bureaucracy without guaranteeing outcomes. Voters should be cautious of creating another permanent spending mechanism carved out of the budget.