Texas Senate Bill SB528

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the storage of certain hazardous chemicals; transferring enforcement of certain reporting requirements, including the imposition of criminal, civil, and administrative penalties, from the Department of State Health Services to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Impact

If enacted, SB528 would notably amend sections of the Agriculture and Health and Safety Codes, placing stricter regulations on how ammonium nitrate — a widely used chemical in agricultural and industrial applications — is stored and reported. By transferring oversight to TCEQ, the bill aims to improve public safety by ensuring better compliance with safety standards concerning hazardous chemicals. The new regulations would likely result in increased operational costs for facilities required to adhere to them, including potential penalties for non-compliance.

Summary

Senate Bill 528 pertains to the storage and management of hazardous chemicals, specifically focusing on ammonium nitrate storage facilities. It proposes the transfer of enforcement powers related to hazardous chemical reporting from the Department of State Health Services to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This transition aims to streamline the enforcement process and enhance accountability measures for operators of such facilities. The bill outlines specific operational requirements, including maintaining detailed records of hazardous chemical presence and allowing inspections from fire marshals and local emergency planning committees.

Contention

While supporters of SB528 argue that the bill enhances community safety and environmental protection by holding facilities accountable for hazardous chemical management, there are concerns regarding the financial implications for smaller operators who may struggle to meet the new requirements. Critics may also point out that the shift in enforcement could lead to discrepancies in how regulations are applied, citing fears of inconsistent safety measures in various jurisdictions across Texas. The bill also raises questions about whether the changes could effectively reduce risks associated with hazardous materials.