Rep. Don McLaughlin Hosts First-Of-Its Kind Rural South Texas Water Forum at the Capitol  

AUSTIN, TX – This week, Representative Don McLaughlin (HD-80) hosted the first-of-its-kind Rural South Texas Water Forum at the Texas Capitol, bringing together more than 60 local leaders from across the district to address critical water issues facing the region.

 

The forum included elected officials and stakeholders from Uvalde, Dimmit, Atascosa, Zavala, Frio, and Webb counties, ensuring full district representation. Attendees heard directly from the Texas Water Development Board and other experts on water funding opportunities, infrastructure needs, and policy priorities ahead of the next legislative session.

 

“This was about making sure South Texas is informed, prepared, and working together,” said Rep. McLaughlin. “For too long, rural communities have been overlooked when it comes to water planning. That stops now. I’m committed to making sure our district has a seat at the table and the resources we need to protect our future.”

 

As the first forum of its kind for the region, the event underscores McLaughlin’s leadership on water policy and his commitment to ensuring rural South Texas communities are equipped with the tools, information, and partnerships needed to compete for state resources.

 

The forum also provided an opportunity for open discussion, allowing local leaders to raise concerns and begin developing coordinated solutions for their communities. McLaughlin encouraged local leaders to remain engaged with his office and state agencies as these programs are implemented and as lawmakers prepare for the 90th Legislative Session.

 

“Water policy will be one of the biggest issues we tackle next session,” McLaughlin said. “The men and women in this room are the ones who will help shape that agenda. We need to be proactive, organized, and ready to advocate for our communities.”

 

Representative McLaughlin remains committed to leading on water policy and ensuring rural Texas communities have the tools, funding, and representation necessary to meet the growing demands of the state.