I have been fighting against overreach from the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District (HTGCD) since 2019. Their ongoing efforts to regulate beyond reason— including denying permits to water providers, proposing new fees, metering private wells, and even seeking to pay their director with public funds—represent an unacceptable threat to property rights and water access in Hays County.
That’s why I filed House Bill 2812, which removes HTGCD’s authority over water providers already regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC). These providers are fully accountable to the PUC, which ensures responsible service, guards against price gouging, and protects consumers. Denying them permits doesn’t just create bureaucratic chaos— it risks cutting off water to thousands of families and businesses. That is not a solution. I support legislation to strengthen infrastructure, including desalination and brackish water development—critical steps toward long-term water security.
In contrast, the HTGCD through Senate Bill 2660 would expand their power to levy new groundwater production fees—up to 38 cents per 1,000 gallons—on private well owners. It also repeals critical safeguards in state law that currently protect domestic and agricultural wells from metering, permit requirements, and property inspections without consent. These are unnecessary and invasive measures that I strongly oppose.
As a founding member of the Texas House Water Caucus I remain focused on real water solutions and have filed numerous pieces of legislation addressing our water issues. Access to water is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. I will continue to defend our water supply, protect property rights, and oppose unnecessary government overreach. Hays County families deserve solutions—not threats to their water.
— Rep. Carrie Isaac
