Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB2872

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

Caption

Relating to the establishment by the State Soil and Water Conservation Board of a carbon dioxide sequestration or emissions offset program.

Impact

The bill signifies an important shift in state law as it places the responsibility of managing carbon sequestration initiatives primarily with a designated state board. This centralization aims to create a streamlined approach for verifying and certifying entities responsible for carbon offset projects, thereby establishing a clear framework for accountability. The legislation is likely to create a new economic sector surrounding carbon trading and environmental conservation, potentially attracting investments and enhancing Texas's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

Summary

House Bill 2872 proposes the establishment of a carbon dioxide sequestration or emissions offset program under the oversight of the State Soil and Water Conservation Board. The primary aim of this bill is to facilitate the management and trading of carbon credits, which are essential for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The program will specifically target projects executed on private agricultural lands, promoting the adoption of practices that reduce carbon footprints while potentially providing financial incentives to landowners involved in carbon sequestration efforts.

Contention

While the bill may have broad support for its environmental goals, potential points of contention could arise around the implications for landowners and the agricultural community. Critics may argue about the feasibility of compliance with the proposed regulations and the associated costs of certification and verification. Additionally, concerns might be raised regarding the confidentiality of transactional data related to carbon credits, which could affect market transparency. Stakeholders could debate the balance between environmental accountability and the economic burdens imposed on agricultural producers, emphasizing the need for careful consideration during the implementation of the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2243

Relating to advanced clean energy projects and certain other projects that reduce or eliminate carbon dioxide emissions.

TX HB1158

Relating to advanced clean energy projects and certain other projects that reduce or eliminate emissions of carbon dioxide or other pollutants.

TX HB4018

Relating to the use of Parks and Wildlife Department land for carbon sequestration or similar ecosystem services projects.

TX HB4484

Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land and to the use of that space for the geologic storage of carbon dioxide; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4557

Relating to liability for capturing and storing carbon dioxide.

TX HB4907

Relating to capturing and storing carbon dioxide.

TX SB2439

Relating to capturing and storing carbon dioxide.

TX SB2485

Relating to the establishment, administration, and use of the land and water conservation fund.

TX HB3165

Relating to the establishment, administration, and use of the Texas land and water conservation fund.

TX SB1424

Relating to the continuation and functions of the State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Texas Invasive Species Coordinating Committee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.