Relating to motor fuel measuring, quality, and testing standards.
Impact
If enacted, SB2699 would significantly impact the state laws governing motor fuel quality and testing. It would ensure that all gasoline sold must meet specific ASTM standards, potentially increasing the quality of fuel available to consumers while also holding businesses accountable for compliance. This change is intended to reduce variance in fuel quality across different regions of Texas, promoting fairness among fuel retailers. It may also lead to improved environmental outcomes by enforcing stricter measures for emissions and fuel composition.
Summary
SB2699, relating to motor fuel measuring, quality, and testing standards, focuses on establishing updated quality standards for motor fuel sold in Texas. The bill emphasizes adherence to the most recent nationally recognized ASTM petroleum standards and introduces provisions for consistent quality assessment throughout the state. Included in its mechanisms are amendments to the Occupations Code, particularly surrounding fuel quality standards and the responsibilities of the department in charge of regulation. This bill aims to ensure that the motor fuel sold or offered for sale in Texas conforms to established standards, enhancing consumer safety and environmental protections.
Contention
The discussions surrounding SB2699 may reflect varying opinions on regulation in the fuel market. Supporters argue that higher standards will protect consumers and enhance environmental health, while opponents might raise concerns regarding the increased operational costs for fuel retailers. Additionally, there could be issues related to implementation, enforcement, and the possible burden on local businesses. Overall, while the bill advocates for higher fuel quality, its passage could lead to debates about regulatory overreach versus necessary consumer protection.
Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.
Relating to creating a criminal offense for interfering with a motor fuel metering device or motor fuel unattended payment terminal and the prosecution of organized criminal activity involving that conduct.
Relating to creating a criminal offense for interfering with a motor fuel metering device or motor fuel unattended payment terminal and the prosecution of organized criminal activity involving that conduct.
Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, testing, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products; authorizing the imposition of taxes and fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense.