Relating to a program for the recycling of certain household batteries; authorizing a fee; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Impact
The impact of HB3153 on state laws lies in the establishment of a dedicated framework for battery recycling, which has not been systematically regulated in Texas prior to this bill. Producers of covered batteries must now participate in approved stewardship programs to sell their products. Non-compliance could lead to administrative and civil penalties, potentially reshaping how batteries are marketed and handled in the state. Additionally, this law could encourage environmental sustainability by promoting recycling over landfill disposal, reducing hazardous material releases.
Summary
House Bill 3153 establishes a comprehensive program for the recycling of certain household batteries in Texas. The bill mandates a stewardship program that requires producers and retailers to implement systems for the collection and responsible management of covered batteries, which includes alkaline, lithium metal, and carbon-zinc batteries. The legislation defines 'covered batteries' and outlines the responsibilities of producers to ensure that these batteries are recycled rather than discarded improperly. The program is aimed at protecting the environment by making battery recycling accessible and efficient for consumers.
Contention
There may be contention surrounding the bill, particularly from manufacturers who may view the new regulations as burdensome or costly. The requirement to implement a stewardship program may lead to pushback regarding the associated fees and operational changes needed for compliance. Additionally, the stipulation that all collected batteries must be managed responsibly could raise concerns among producers about the implications of liability for improper handling by various retailers or stewardship organizations. Discussions may also highlight the balance between consumer convenience and producer responsibility.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to a directory of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products sold in this state, and regulation of the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products; imposing fees; creating criminal offenses; imposing a civil penalty; imposing administrative penalties.
Relating to a directory of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products sold in this state, and regulation of the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products; imposing fees; creating criminal offenses; imposing a civil penalty; imposing administrative penalties.
Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.
Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of open-space land devoted to water stewardship purposes on the basis of its productive capacity.
Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of open-space land devoted to water stewardship purposes on the basis of its productive capacity.
Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of open-space land devoted to water stewardship purposes on the basis of its productive capacity.