Relating to the sale, storage, transportation, and disposal of scrap or used tires; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.
Impact
The bill significantly amends existing laws in the Health and Safety Code regarding tire management. It establishes requirements concerning the registration of scrap and used tire transporters, imposing obligations on them to maintain records, dispose of tires responsibly, and ensure that their operations comply with both state and local regulations. The financial assurance measure, which includes provisions for surety bonds, trust accounts, or irrevocable letters of credit, acts as a safeguard allowing the state to address abandoned tire disposal effectively. Overall, this bill aims to foster responsible recycling and waste management practices in Texas.
Summary
House Bill 3795 addresses the sale, storage, transportation, and disposal of scrap and used tires across Texas. The bill mandates that tire dealers, junkyards, and fleet operators securely store scrap tires outdoors when their business is closed, thereby aiming to reduce safety hazards and environmental impact. By introducing regulations around the handling of tires, the bill seeks to mitigate the risks associated with improperly disposed tires, which can contribute to pollution and health risks in local communities.
Contention
Some notable points of contention surrounding HB 3795 revolve around the additional regulatory burdens it places on small businesses, particularly tire retailers who may already face significant operational costs. There are concerns that the financial requirements for registration may deter smaller transporters from entering the market, potentially consolidating the industry and limiting competition. Advocacy groups for small businesses have expressed fears that such regulations could lead to unintended economic consequences. Additionally, while proponents argue that these measures are essential for environmental protection, opponents are wary of overregulation that could stifle business growth.
Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.
Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.
Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.