Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB1909

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to rules of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality related to motor vehicle idling.

Impact

The bill's passage may impact local laws and regulations pertaining to vehicle idling across Texas. By standardizing the approach to idling rules at the state level, local jurisdictions may find their ability to implement stricter regulations limited. This could lead to more uniform enforcement and compliance measures statewide, affecting both transportation industry practices and environmental outcomes. The requirement for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to update its rules to align with HB1909 also emphasizes a state-led approach to managing motor vehicle emissions.

Summary

House Bill 1909 amends the Health and Safety Code to establish specific rules around motor vehicle idling. The bill primarily addresses the issue of idling among vehicles weighing 6,000 pounds or more, specifically in contexts where drivers may require climate control while using sleeper berths during mandated rest periods. It ensures that idling is permissible only when no other external heating or air conditioning options are available within a two-mile radius. This provision seeks to balance drivers' needs with environmental considerations regarding emissions and local air quality.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB1909 could arise from its provision restricting idling in residential areas, school zones, and near hospitals. While proponents may argue this is necessary for protecting community health and reducing emissions, critics may express concerns about the practicality of such regulations for drivers needing to adhere to government-mandated rest periods. Additionally, the nuances of where idling is permitted or restricted could lead to potential conflicts between local governments and state regulations, as communities may seek to tailor rules to their specific environmental and public health needs.

Companion Bills

TX HB1920

Duplicate Relating to rules of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality related to motor vehicle idling.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2905

Relating to air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB1505

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB1397

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB1719

Relating to the permitting processes of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB26

Relating to the permitting of medical waste facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB173

Relating to the permitting of medical waste facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB788

Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB4444

Relating to the management of groundwater by certain districts and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB4957

Relating to the regulation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the discharge of preproduction plastic.

TX HB933

Relating to the notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.