"Texas Voters Face Crucial Decisions on Funding Gas Power Plants, Water Projects, and Bridging the Digital Divide"

Texas voters will decide on Proposition 7, which aims to allocate billions of dollars to support natural gas power plants. Proponents argue that it will improve the state's electric grid, which failed during a severe winter storm in 2021. Opponents view it as a taxpayer giveaway to the fossil fuel industry and question its effectiveness in enhancing reliability. The proposition creates the Texas Energy Fund, providing low-interest loans for new gas-powered plants, completion bonuses, and repairs. It also allocates funds for backup power and power infrastructure outside the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) jurisdiction. Environmental advocates oppose the measure, emphasizing the need to transition away from fossil fuels.