Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB380

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

Caption

Relating to a loan program to encourage the use of cleaner hydrogen fuel; providing for the issuance of bonds.

Impact

The proposed loan program is expected to drive innovation and investment in hydrogen fuel technologies, which could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. By prioritizing funding for projects that minimize emissions, SB380 aligns with broader state and national goals to transition toward more sustainable energy sources. Additionally, the issuance of bonds up to $250 million would facilitate these initiatives, stimulating economic development in relevant sectors.

Summary

SB380 establishes a loan program aimed at promoting the use of cleaner hydrogen as a fuel source. The bill mandates the creation of a program administered by the state energy conservation office to provide and guarantee loans to various entities including businesses and state agencies. The goal is to support projects involved in the manufacturing, storage, distribution, or sale of hydrogen fuel, thereby contributing to a cleaner energy landscape in Texas.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote cleaner energy, there may be points of contention regarding the funding and financial efficiency of the program. Some legislators might question the long-term viability and actual impact of hydrogen technologies, particularly in contrast with other renewable energy sources. Moreover, the requirement for voter approval concerning the bond issuance could introduce challenges in securing the necessary funding to launch the program.

Companion Bills

TX HB1777

Identical Relating to a loan program to encourage the use of cleaner hydrogen fuel; providing for the issuance of bonds.

TX SJR17

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds to provide and guarantee loans to encourage the use of hydrogen as a cleaner fuel source.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3100

Relating to the creation of a hydrogen infrastructure and vehicle grant program under the Texas emissions reduction plan.

TX HB4885

Relating to programs established and funded under the Texas emissions reduction plan.

TX HB3484

Relating to weight limitations for hydrogen fueled motor vehicles.

TX SB2369

Relating to the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB6

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.

TX HB2502

Relating to the creation of an energy efficiency loan guarantee program.

TX HB5359

Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB5338

Relating to the Harris County Flood Control District and the transfer to it of the assets, programs, and facilities of the Harris County Toll Road Authority; providing for the appointment of the governing body.

TX HB5363

Relating to the creation of the Jones Avenue Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.