Texas House Bill HB4082

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to reducing mercury emissions from electric generating facilities; providing for an administrative penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4082 would grant the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) the authority to enforce these emissions reductions through administrative penalties. Facilities that exceed the set limits could face significant operational restrictions, including potential cessation of operations until compliance is achieved. The impact of this legislation extends beyond regulatory compliance; it aims to enhance air quality, thereby protecting public health, particularly for vulnerable populations living near electric generating facilities. The bill aligns with broader trends towards stricter environmental regulations and reflects a proactive stance in addressing pollution challenges in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 4082 aims to address the issue of mercury emissions from electric generating facilities in Texas. The bill proposes to amend the Health and Safety Code to establish specific limits on annual mercury emissions, requiring facilities to reduce their emissions to no more than 10% of the mercury they emitted during the baseline year of 2002. This legislative action reflects growing concerns regarding environmental health and the impact of mercury pollution on communities and ecosystems. By targeting emissions from both private and municipal electric facilities, the bill sets a framework for state regulation of air pollutants, marking a significant shift in Texas's approach to environmental governance.

Contention

Debates surrounding HB 4082 likely involve discussions on economic implications for the energy sector. While proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step in protecting public health and the environment, critics may raise concerns about the potential financial burden on electricity providers. The ability of smaller facilities, especially those generating less than 25 megawatts, to comply with the new standards could also be a point of contention. Questions about the feasibility of achieving the proposed emissions reductions and the timeline for compliance could further fuel discussions among legislators and stakeholders.