TX
Texas House Bill HB860

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB860

Caption

Relating to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Railroad Commission of Texas; increasing criminal penalties.

Impact

The consequences of HB 860 on state laws primarily pertain to regulatory compliance mechanisms within Texas. By implementing stricter penalties, the bill aims to hold violators accountable more effectively, which may lead to improved adherence to safety and environmental regulations. The enhancements to penalties particularly target the deterrence of future violations. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for the Railroad Commission to establish guidelines for determining the severity and appropriateness of penalties, which could foster a more structured and transparent approach to regulatory enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 860 aims to amend existing statutes related to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties by the Railroad Commission of Texas. The bill is focused on increasing the penalties for various violations under the commission's jurisdiction. Specifically, it raises daily penalties from a maximum of $10,000 to $25,000 for non-pipeline safety violations and $200,000 for those related to pipeline safety. This increase reflects a legislative intent to enhance regulatory enforcement capabilities and deter noncompliance by companies operating in these regulated areas.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 860 highlight notable points of contention regarding the impact of increased penalties on businesses. Proponents argue that higher penalties are necessary to protect public health and safety, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas where violations can have significant environmental repercussions. Critics, on the other hand, may raise concerns about the potential for punitive measures to disproportionately affect smaller companies and their ability to operate effectively. This debate points to a broader discussion on balancing economic interests with the need for stringent regulations to safeguard public welfare.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4786

Relating to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Railroad Commission of Texas; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB3853

Relating to authorizing a change in the amount of certain administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB3913

Relating to the disposition and use of the state's portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB4388

Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB44

Relating to civil and administrative penalties assessed for violations of statutes or rules governing chemical dependency treatment facilities.

TX SB2474

Relating to civil and administrative penalties assessed for violations of statutes or rules governing chemical dependency treatment facilities.

TX HB2437

Relating to the regulation, monitoring, and enforcement of matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; authorizing the assessment or increase of civil and administrative penalties.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX HB1719

Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB3032

Relating to periods of detention following arrest and increasing the criminal penalties for violation of certain court orders and conditions of bond.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.