Texas Senate Bill SB2154

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the amendment to an existing permit for a municipal solid waste landfill facility to accept increased amounts of Class 1 industrial solid waste.

Impact

The bill stipulates that landfill facilities may accept up to 50% of Class 1 waste relative to the total waste they receive. This provision aims to facilitate better waste disposal management while still setting a cap to mitigate potential over-acceptance of harmful wastes. The amendment targets existing permits and ensures that facilities that wish to exceed the typical 20% cap for Class 1 waste can do so only through a process determined by TCEQ, thus maintaining some regulatory oversight.

Summary

SB2154 amends existing legislation concerning municipal solid waste landfill facilities in Texas, specifically addressing the acceptance of Class 1 industrial solid waste. The bill outlines procedures by which the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) may amend, extend, or renew landfill permits, allowing for an increase in the acceptance rate of Class 1 waste. This modification is essential for addressing waste management needs, particularly in regions facing capacity challenges.

Contention

While SB2154 seeks to address pressing waste management issues, various stakeholders may express concerns over its implications for environmental health and safety. Critics may argue that allowing increased Class 1 waste acceptance could lead to environmental degradation or local community health risks. Proponents might counter that the ability to accept more industrial waste at designated landfills is necessary to manage waste effectively, particularly as industrial activities expand.