Texas Senate Bill SB1572

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/2/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/16/09

Caption

Relating to land reclamation projects using tires.

Impact

The implications of SB1572 on state laws are significant, as it shifts regulatory authority towards the TCEQ while outlining a comprehensive permitting process for land reclamation projects. The bill emphasizes environmental responsibility by requiring detailed assessments of the potential impacts on soil and groundwater from utilizing scrap tires compared to alternative reclamation methods. It also mandates that local governing bodies, including municipalities and county commissioners, must approve applications for permits, effectively integrating local governance into the enforcement mechanism.

Summary

SB1572 seeks to establish guidelines and a regulatory framework for land reclamation projects that utilize scrap tires in the State of Texas. The bill introduces a new section in the Health and Safety Code that mandates obtaining a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) before commencing any reclamation project using scrap tires. This requirement aims to ensure environmental protection by stipulating that tires must be processed in specific ways (shredded, split, or quartered) prior to use, although exceptions can be made under certain conditions by the commission.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1572 include concerns about the bureaucratic processes involved in obtaining the necessary permits, which some stakeholders argue could hinder timely reclamation efforts. Environmental advocates support the bill's provisions, aiming to ensure that projects do not compromise local ecosystems, while opponents worry that the requirements may deter landowners from engaging in beneficial reclamation activities. The balance between regulating environmental risk and promoting efficient land reuse practices remains a vital focus for ongoing discussions related to this legislation.