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HARLINGEN — State Rep. Janie Lopez, whose district includes Cameron and Willacy counties, announced her legislation aimed at helping fund drainage projects is headed for Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk to be signed into law.
House Bill 4742 stems from the Texas Water Development Board’s study of issues facing communities with so called “artificial” drainage systems, such as the Rio Grande Valley’s system of canals.
Under the bill, the Water Development Board will assess flooding issues faced by communities with such drainage systems, aiming to provide legislators with more information to target and fix drainage issues and costs.
“I have fought hard to represent House District 37 and (address) the drainage issues that our communities face when presented with extreme weather and heavy rain,” Lopez stated. “For several years now, our homes, schools, businesses, streets and highways flood with as little as three inches of rain. The flooding brings safety and health concerns for our families. Year after year, floods cost our families millions of dollars in repairs of homes and personal belongings. Our farmers and ranchers suffer from crop destruction and livestock loss.”
“South Texas had been left behind for far too long,” she stated. “I am happy to declare the passage of my bill as a victory for not only the district but the Rio Grande Valley as a whole. Your voice is being heard, and I will continue to work hard for you always to represent you in Austin. Thank you to all that were involved in advocating for this bill for the betterment of our communities. On behalf of my team and everyone in House District 37, thank you for letting us know flooding is a big issue you wanted us to address for the RGV. You are important.”
To find a comprehensive list of bills filed — and the status of those bills — visit MyRGV.com and click the 88th Texas Legislative Session tab, which has an interactive spreadsheet and a comprehensive list of AIM Media Texas’ legislative coverage.
