Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1930

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the disclosure of the composition of hydraulic fracturing fluids used in hydraulic fracturing treatments.

Impact

The legislation is poised to alter the regulatory landscape concerning hydraulic fracturing in Texas, as it adds a specific requirement for chemical disclosure to the Natural Resources Code. This amendment is expected to influence how operators manage their chemical use, aiming for greater environmental accountability. Additionally, by establishing a framework for information sharing, the bill may lead to a more informed public discourse on the safety of hydraulic fracturing, particularly in communities located near fracking sites.

Summary

SB1930 aims to enhance the transparency of hydraulic fracturing operations by mandating the disclosure of the chemical composition of fluids utilized in hydraulic fracturing treatments. The bill requires operators to submit detailed forms documenting the volume of water used as well as each chemical ingredient in accordance with specific safety regulations. By promoting openness regarding the chemicals involved, the bill seeks to inform both regulatory bodies and the public about potential environmental impacts and health risks associated with hydraulic fracturing activities.

Sentiment

Reactions to SB1930 have been mixed. Proponents argue that increased transparency is essential for protecting the environment and public health, claiming that the bill is a critical step toward responsible resource extraction. Conversely, critics express concerns about potential overreach, arguing that strict disclosure requirements could infringe on trade secrets and deter investment in the sector. This divide reflects broader tensions in the ongoing debate over resource management and environmental stewardship in Texas.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the balance between necessary disclosure and the protection of proprietary information. While the bill assures that operators and suppliers are not required to disclose information that is deemed a trade secret, opponents fear that the trade secret provisions could be manipulated to withhold critical safety information from the public. The debate underscores the complexities inherent in regulating hydraulic fracturing and the challenge of reconciling industrial interests with community safety and environmental health.

Companion Bills

TX HB3328

Similar Relating to the disclosure of the composition of hydraulic fracturing fluids used in hydraulic fracturing treatments.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4320

Relating to the disclosure of certain chemicals included in hydraulic fracturing treatments.

TX HB4577

Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.

TX HB2056

Relating to a severance tax exemption for oil and gas produced from certain restimulation wells; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB1407

Relating to a severance tax exemption for oil and gas produced from certain restimulation wells; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB4

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB1844

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB4484

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.

TX HB873

Relating to a manufacturer's disclosure of cosmetic ingredients; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX SB864

Relating to certain seller's disclosures for the sale of residential real property.

TX HB3840

Relating to the extension of the deadline for plugging certain inactive wells under the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

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