Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Impact
The legislative discussions surrounding SB 1397 underscored the importance of TCEQ in safeguarding Texas's air and water resources. Supporters, including industry groups and environmental advocates, expressed appreciation for the updates aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of the TCEQ. The bill addresses frequent criticisms of the agency's communication strategies and public engagement, ensuring that stakeholders have better access to information regarding permit applications and environmental regulations. Through these changes, the bill aims to solidify TCEQ's role as a vital regulatory body while facilitating better interactions with the communities it serves.
Summary
Senate Bill 1397, also known as the TCEQ Sunset Bill, is intended to continue the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and enhance its operational transparency and decision-making processes. The bill not only extends the agency's existence until September 1, 2035 but also introduces significant changes to its administrative procedures, including modifications to public participation in the permit application process. Among its major provisions is the enhancement of public comment periods and the establishment of an enforcement diversion program aimed at supporting small businesses and local governments in compliance with environmental standards.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment regarding SB 1397 was largely positive among legislators and stakeholders. Many expressed optimism that the bill represents a balanced approach to environmental policy that takes into consideration the needs of both industry and community. The support for the bill from various organizations, such as the Texas Chemical Council and the Texas Association of Manufacturers, demonstrates a collaborative effort in refining the state's environmental governance. However, there were criticisms from some that more stringent measures could have been implemented to enhance environmental protections.
Contention
Despite the general support for SB 1397, some points of contention surfaced during discussions. Critics argued that the bill may still fall short in fully addressing environmental concerns, as the proposed changes primarily focus on procedural updates rather than adopting new stringent regulations. Furthermore, concerns were raised regarding the balance between facilitating economic growth and ensuring robust environmental protections. The bill's approach to streamlining operations while expanding public notification processes has sparked debate about whether it sufficiently empowers local communities to safeguard their environments.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 382. Clean Air Act
Section: 05101
Section: 0511
Section: 051985
Section: New Section
Section: 05101
Section: 0511
Section: 051985
Section: 05101
Section: 051985
Section: New Section
Chapter 361. Solid Waste Disposal Act
Section: 0666
Section: 0791
Water Code
Chapter 5. Texas Commission On Environmental Quality
Section: 014
Section: 0535
Section: 113
Section: 136
Section: 1734
Section: 587
Section: 0535
Section: New Section
Section: 014
Section: 0535
Section: 113
Section: 136
Section: 1734
Section: 584
Section: 1734
Section: New Section
Section: 552
Section: 014
Section: 129
Chapter 11. Water Rights
Section: 02363
Section: 1471
Section: 02362
Section: New Section
Section: 02363
Section: 1471
Section: 02363
Section: 1471
Chapter 28. Water Wells And Drilled Or Mined Shafts
Section: New Section
Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and abolishing the On-site Wastewater Treatment Research Council.
Relating to plot plan requirements for an application for a standard permit for a concrete batch plant issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Texas Water Development Board and related entities, including the funding of projects by the board and the composition, duties, recommendations, and expenses of entities created to study and provide advice regarding environmental flows.
Relating to species-protection programs for the Edwards Aquifer, the Guadalupe River Basin, the San Antonio River Basin, and the San Antonio Bay and estuary system; imposing a tax.
Relating to species-protection programs for the Edwards Aquifer, the Guadalupe River Basin, the San Antonio River Basin, and the San Antonio Bay and estuary system; imposing a tax.
Relating to the repeal of laws governing certain state entities, including the functions of those entities, and to certain duties, responsibilities, and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality on the abolishment of certain of those entities.
In Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark, further providing for definitions, for Pennsylvania Preferred® trademark, for licensee qualification, for duties and authority of department, for trademark license agreement, application and licensure process, for costs, for Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark Licensing Fund, for injunctive relief, for rules and regulations and for purpose, repealing provisions relating to definitions and further providing for qualified veterans and qualified veteran business entities.