Relating to the storage, transportation, and disposal of tires; providing criminal penalties.
Impact
The proposed law directly impacts several statutes under the Health and Safety Code regarding the handling of scrap tires. It defines offenses related to improper violations, making certain actions a Class A misdemeanor or a state jail felony based on the severity of the infraction. By enforcing stricter controls over tire disposal and requiring specific handling procedures, the bill intends to enhance environmental protection standards, ensuring that waste tires are not discarded inappropriately. This aligns with the broader goals of environmental management and public health safety.
Summary
House Bill 405 focuses on the regulations surrounding the storage, transportation, and disposal of used or scrap tires in Texas. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive framework that requires individuals and entities involved in the management of tires to adhere to specific guidelines aimed at preventing environmental hazards. It introduces the need for registration of sites where used or scrap tires can be stored, with particular emphasis on managing quantities over 500 tires. The bill aims to mitigate the risks associated with tire storage and disposal, which can lead to pollution and health risks if not properly managed.
Contention
While the bill has support from environmental groups advocating for responsible tire disposal and management practices, there are concerns about the implications for small businesses involved in tire disposal and transportation. Critics may argue that the registration requirement and the potential penalties could disproportionately affect smaller operators who lack the resources to comply with stringent regulations. As such, the discourse around HB405 may center on balancing environmental accountability while considering the economic impact on local businesses engaged in tire management.
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