Texas House Bill HB1508

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/27/09

Caption

Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas associated with the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer.

Impact

The bill's enforcement would reinforce environmental protections in areas crucial to the sustainability of the Edwards Aquifer. By limiting direct discharges, the legislation seeks to minimize the risk of contaminants entering the aquifer, which is essential for drinking water for thousands of residents and numerous ecosystems. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality would continue to have authority over stormwater and certain non-stormwater discharges, providing a framework for managing runoff while still imposing direct discharge limitations.

Summary

House Bill 1508 aims to impose stricter restrictions on permits that authorize direct discharges of waste or pollutants into the water within specific areas of the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer. Specifically, the bill prohibits the issuance of new permits for such discharges in designated recharge and contributing zones associated with this vital aquifer, a critical water source in Texas. Additionally, the bill restricts amendments to existing permits issued prior to September 1, 2009, specifically those that would increase the quantity of authorized waste or pollutants.

Contention

As with many environmental regulatory bills, HB1508 may face opposition from various stakeholders who believe that such restrictions could hinder economic development and growth in the region. Supporters of the bill would argue that the protection of the water supply and the environment must take precedence over potential economic trade-offs. The conversations around the bill could spotlight the balance between environmental preservation and the operational freedoms of businesses that may be affected by the new permit restrictions.