Relating to the preparation of carbon dioxide emissions impact statements for legislation pending before the legislature.
Impact
This legislative measure aims to integrate environmental considerations into the fabric of Texas lawmaking. By requiring that all relevant bills carry an attached emissions impact statement, the bill seeks to ensure that lawmakers have access to essential data on how their proposals may influence carbon emissions. This change could lead to more environmentally conscious decision-making within the legislature and promote the development of legislation that mitigates negative environmental impacts.
Summary
House Bill 1469 mandates the preparation of carbon dioxide emissions impact statements for all bills and joint resolutions, except appropriations bills, that are pending before the Texas Legislature. This requires the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) to analyze proposed legislation to determine its impact on anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. The intent is to foster greater accountability and awareness regarding the environmental consequences of legislative actions in Texas.
Contention
While the bill is a step forward in environmental policy, it could raise concerns among legislators about the additional bureaucratic process involved in evaluating each bill's emissions impact. Supporters argue that it provides necessary transparency and enables lawmakers to make informed decisions. However, there may be opposition from those who view the requirement as potentially delaying legislative processes or increasing the workload on the TCEQ and LBB. The balance between thorough environmental consideration and legislative efficiency will likely be a point of contention as the bill moves through the legislative process.
Relating to establishing the Texas Carbon Emissions Mitigation and Severe Weather Adaptation Commission to study and address the impacts of carbon emissions and severe weather in this state.
Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land and to the use of that space for the geologic storage of carbon dioxide; authorizing a fee.
Relating to a study conducted by the Railroad Commission of Texas to determine the net reduction in the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere resulting from the use of carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology.