Relating to the creation of an alternative fuel program to be funded by the Texas emissions reduction plan fund.
Impact
The bill amends the Health and Safety Code to create a framework for administering these alternative fuel programs. Notably, it introduces a grant program that incentivizes vehicle fleets to transition to alternative fuels or hybrids, providing financial assistance to offset costs. These measures are anticipated to reduce vehicular emissions significantly, improving public health and contributing to cleaner air statewide. Through grants, the bill encourages the installation and establishment of alternative fueling facilities, fostering infrastructure development in critical areas.
Summary
SB1425 aims to establish alternative fuel programs funded by the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan Fund. The bill proposes the allocation of fund money for various programs targeting emission reductions, including a diesel emissions reduction program and initiatives to support the adoption of alternative fuels in transportation. This approach is consistent with efforts to enhance air quality across Texas, particularly within nonattainment areas where air quality standards are not being met.
Contention
Discussion around SB1425 highlights potential contention regarding funding and the effectiveness of the proposed initiatives. Critics may raise concerns about the allocation of public funds and whether the bill adequately addresses the specific needs of different regions in Texas. Supporters argue that the benefits of improved air quality and public health outweigh the costs involved. The success of these programs will heavily depend on the implementation strategies and whether adequate measures are put in place to maximize the reach and efficiency of the funding provided.
Relating to the allocation of certain constitutional transfers of money to the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, the oil and gas regulation and cleanup account, the Texas emissions reduction plan fund, the property tax relief fund, and the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund and to the permissible uses of money deposited to the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund, dedicating the money in that fund to benefit areas of the state significantly affected by oil and gas production, and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, the oil and gas regulation and cleanup account, the Texas emissions reduction plan fund, and the property tax relief fund.
Energy: alternative sources; participation in the energy waste reduction program by municipally owned utilities and co-ops; require, and set specific targets for all electric providers. Amends secs. 71, 73, 75, 77, 78, 91 & 93 of 2008 PA 295 (MCL 460.1071 et seq.); adds secs. 72, 80 & 80a & repeals sec. 6x of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6x).