Texas Senate Bill SB1802

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to road specifications and safety standards for access to a solid waste facility.

Impact

The introduction of SB1802 will lead to more stringent regulations governing the access routes to solid waste facilities. By establishing clear standards for infrastructure such as road conditions, vehicle load limits, and flood protection, the legislation is intended to mitigate risks associated with heavy commercial vehicle traffic. These changes will not only help preserve road integrity but also ensure public safety by implementing necessary traffic control devices and safe crossing protocols.

Summary

Senate Bill 1802 addresses the need for uniform road specifications and safety standards for access to solid waste facilities that handle municipal or hazardous waste. The bill mandates that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality adopt specific rules outlining the necessary criteria for these access routes, ensuring that they are safe and environmentally sound. This initiative aims to enhance safety measures and reduce the environmental impacts associated with transportation to waste facilities.

Contention

While proponents of SB1802 emphasize the importance of road safety and environmental protection, critics may argue that the additional regulatory requirements could impose financial burdens on solid waste facility operators. There may be concerns regarding the costs associated with developing and maintaining compliant access routes, particularly for smaller operations that may struggle to meet the new standards. This could lead to a debate about balancing regulatory oversight with the economic realities faced by waste management providers.