Texas House Bill HB1391

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to inspections of solid waste facilities conducted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Impact

The bill's stipulations are expected to tighten existing laws related to environmental health and safety by increasing the frequency of inspections for non-compliant facilities. These changes could lead to improved operational standards among solid waste facilities, promoting better waste management practices across Texas. Furthermore, this legislation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of environmental stewardship and regulatory enforcement in mitigating risks associated with waste disposal.

Summary

House Bill 1391 introduces significant changes to the inspection regime of solid waste facilities under the jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This bill mandates that the TCEQ conduct biennial inspections of solid waste facilities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. It also establishes stricter measures for facilities with repeated violations or numerous complaints, including quarterly inspections to promote accountability and environmental safety. The intent behind this measure is to strengthen oversight and enhance regulatory compliance within the solid waste management sector.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance environmental accountability, some stakeholders may view the new inspection requirements as burdensome, particularly for smaller waste management operations that may struggle with the compliance costs associated with increased oversight. Concerns have been raised about the potential for overregulation impacting business operations, which could lead to opposition from industry groups advocating for less stringent regulatory frameworks. However, proponents argue that improved inspections are necessary to protect public health and the environment, a viewpoint that underscores the tension between regulatory oversight and operational flexibility.