Texas House Bill HB3582

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/11/09

Caption

Relating to the creation of a publicly accessible electronic emissions database.

Impact

The implementation of HB3582 is expected to significantly improve the transparency and accessibility of emissions data for the public. By mandating that the TCEQ develop a centralized database, stakeholders, including researchers and public interest groups, will have easier access to crucial emissions information that can inform policy decisions and governmental action regarding air quality management. Furthermore, the bill directs the TCEQ to devise a means for entities to review their reported emissions before public disclosure, which is intended to ensure accuracy and accountability in the database.

Summary

House Bill 3582 intends to establish a comprehensive electronic database intended for tracking emissions across Texas. This legislative initiative calls for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to create a singular database that encompasses all authorized emissions activities. The primary goal is to facilitate the monitoring of various types of emissions, including permitted, annual routine, and excess emissions that occur during maintenance operations. By streamlining emissions reporting, the bill aims to enhance the state’s ability to manage environmental data effectively.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB3582 may center on the balance between regulatory oversight and the interests of businesses operating in emissions-intensive sectors. Supporters of the bill argue that a centralized emissions database is crucial for monitoring environmental compliance and protecting public health. However, there may be concerns from industry stakeholders regarding the costs associated with compliance and the potential for increased regulatory scrutiny resulting from greater public access to emissions data. The perspectives of environmental advocacy groups will likely also play a key role in shaping the debate as they may view this legislation as a necessary step toward enhanced environmental protections.