Texas Senate Bill SB567

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Railroad Commission of Texas; increasing criminal penalties.

Impact

In practice, SB567 would have a substantial impact on how violations are penalized under the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission. By increasing the maximum fines, the bill aims to deter future violations and ensure stricter compliance with environmental regulations. This could lead to a more robust enforcement environment, where companies operating within Texas would need to prioritize adherence to safety protocols and existing laws to avoid hefty penalties. However, the increase in penalties may also raise concerns among businesses regarding operational costs and risks associated with compliance.

Summary

SB567 proposes significant amendments to the Natural Resources Code, specifically concerning the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violations of statutes under the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. The bill aims to increase the penalties for various violations, including those related to pipeline safety and environmental regulations. Under the new provisions, non-compliance could incur fines of up to $25,000 per day for general violations, and up to $200,000 per day for violations involving pipeline safety. This legislative change reflects the Texas Legislature's commitment to strengthening oversight and accountability in the management of the state's natural resources.

Contention

Notably, the changes proposed in SB567 have sparked discussions related to the balance between regulatory enforcement and the potential burden on businesses. While supporters argue that stricter penalties are necessary to protect public health and safety as well as the environment, critics may raise concerns about the fairness of imposing such high fines and the potential chilling effect on economic activities. The bill emphasizes the importance of public safety, but also raises questions about its impact on Texas businesses and their ability to comply with complex regulatory standards.