TX
Texas House Bill HB2545

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2545

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

Caption

Relating to the participation of this state in the Regional Air Quality Compact.

Impact

If passed, this bill would be significant in shaping how air quality regulations are enforced in Texas. By allowing party states to establish and enforce their own air quality regulations independently of the federal government's EPA, HB2545 could lead to a tailored approach to managing air pollution that better suits the unique needs of Texas. Furthermore, it would enable the state to propose amendments to existing federal and state laws to align with the compact's objectives. The legislation also empowers the Regional Air Quality Commission to take certain actions, including issuing orders for violations of air quality regulations.

Summary

House Bill 2545 aims to formalize Texas's participation in the Regional Air Quality Compact, creating a multi-state agreement focused on air quality management. The bill establishes a framework whereby Texas would collaborate with other states to develop and implement a program designed to prevent and control air pollution, thus offering an alternative to federal oversight by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The compact stipulates that states work together to formulate guidance documents that ensure conformity with both state and federal laws regarding air quality.

Contention

There may be challenges surrounding the implementation of this compact, particularly concerning concerns that it may diminish federal oversight of air quality regulations. Proponents of the bill argue that local and state governments should take precedence in handling air quality to better address regional needs, while critics might be worried about potential loopholes that could allow for relaxed air quality standards. The requirement for congressional consent for this compact to take effect further complicates its enactment, and opposition may arise from environmental groups advocating for strong federal measures against pollution.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB44

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the southern border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB20

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB75

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB85

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB37

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB87

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX SB1615

Relating to the cosmetology licensure compact.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HJR84

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.

TX SJR30

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.