Texas House Bill HB1986

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the effect of rules and standards adopted by the Railroad Commission of Texas relating to the liquefied petroleum gas industry on ordinances, orders, or rules adopted by political subdivisions relating to that industry.

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant, effectively reinforcing the ability of local governments to enact more stringent safety regulations than those established by the state commission. This legislative decision could lead to a varied regulatory landscape across Texas as different counties and cities adapt rules that better address their unique safety concerns and environmental factors. The change is expected to foster a cooperative regulatory environment where local entities can tailor their ordinances to enhance community safety, while also maintaining consistency with state guidelines.

Summary

House Bill 1986 addresses the relationship between rules created by the Railroad Commission of Texas and the local ordinances pertaining to the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry. Specifically, it amends Section 113.054 of the Natural Resources Code to clarify that the standards set by the commission do not supplant local regulations. This bill seeks to preserve local governments' authority to impose stricter rules to ensure public safety concerning the handling and management of LPG within their jurisdictions.

Sentiment

Supporters of HB 1986 express a positive sentiment, viewing the measure as vital for empowering local authorities and ensuring that communities can respond proactively to safety issues posed by liquefied petroleum gas. In contrast, there are concerns among some industry stakeholders who worry that differing local regulations might lead to confusion and increased compliance costs for businesses operating in multiple jurisdictions. Overall, the sentiment reflects a broader debate about the balance of power between state and local governments in regulatory practices.

Contention

The notable point of contention surrounding HB 1986 is the potential for conflict between state and local regulations. While the bill is perceived as a victory for local control and public safety, some legislators and industry representatives highlight the risk of disparate regulations leading to challenges in enforcement and operational complexities for companies in the LPG sector. They call into question whether a patchwork of rules will complicate compliance efforts and possibly diminish safety outcomes if not properly coordinated.