Texas House Bill HB817

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer.

Impact

If enacted, HB 817 would strengthen the legal framework governing environmental protections in areas critical to the sustainability of the Edwards Aquifer. This act reflects a proactive approach to water management in Texas, especially concerning water quality in regions prone to pollution from development and agricultural activities. The bill anticipates that by restricting direct discharges, it will help safeguard the integrity of water supplies that many communities depend upon, thereby promoting public health and ecological well-being.

Summary

House Bill 817 aims to impose restrictions on permits that authorize direct discharges of waste or pollutants into waters located in specific areas of the Edwards Aquifer, particularly those within the contributing zone associated with the Nueces River basin. The bill explicitly prohibits the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) from issuing new permits for these discharges and amending existing permits that increase the amount of waste discharged in the affected regions. This legislative measure underscores the importance of protecting critical water resources from potential contamination by industrial and municipal operations.

Contention

The legislation indicates potential points of contention, particularly among industry stakeholders and environmental advocacy groups. Proponents of the bill claim that these restrictions are necessary to prevent further degradation of the Edwards Aquifer, an essential water resource for Texas. However, opponents may argue that such limitations could complicate operations for industries reliant on water permits and could be seen as excessive regulation that stifles economic growth. This dichotomy highlights the ongoing debate between environmental conservation efforts and economic development interests.