AUSTIN (AP) - Texas lawmakers are expected to begin public hearings on a proposed $2 billion fund to finance water projects across the state.

The House Natural Resources Committee will hear testimony on Tuesday about using money from the Rainy Day Fund to create a water development bank.

The State Water Development Board says Texans need to spend $53 billion over the next 50 years to make sure the state has enough water for a growing population. Committee Chairman Alan Ritter has proposed a $2 billion revolving fund that he says can finance those needs.

Texas has one of the fastest growing populations in the country, and a recent drought has demonstrated the state’s vulnerability.

The proposal is known as the State Water Infrastructure Fund for Texas, or SWIFT.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

Also Check Out:

• Teacher Suspended After Pouring Pencil Shavings In Student’s Mouth
• Mosquito-Fighting Plan Allows Access To Private Property With No Warrant
• “Sexually Suggestive” Exercises Center of LA Fitness Lawsuit
• Memorial Service Wraps For Chris Kyle
• Police Expand Hunt For Escaped Florida Inmate