Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1975

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

Caption

Relating to the state's burden of proof in certain asset forfeiture proceedings under the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 1975 on existing state laws could be substantial, as it proposes to amend several statutes related to environmental protection and energy management. If passed, the bill would require industries to comply with more stringent emissions testing and reporting requirements, leading to enhanced scrutiny of environmental practices across various sectors. This would likely lead to increased compliance costs for businesses but could also spur innovation in clean technologies and practices, fostering new economic opportunities in green industries.

Summary

House Bill 1975 aims to enhance environmental regulations within the state by introducing new standards for emissions and promoting renewable energy use. The bill seeks to align state policies with national sustainability goals and is intended to encourage the transition toward cleaner energy sources. By establishing stricter guidelines for emissions from industrial and commercial sectors, it aims to significantly reduce the state's overall carbon footprint and contribute to global climate initiatives.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 1975 is mixed, with strong support from environmental advocacy groups and some lawmakers who prioritize climate action. Advocates highlight the necessity of the bill in combating climate change and promoting public health through improved air quality. Conversely, opposition arises primarily from business groups concerned about potential economic impacts and regulatory burdens that could result from the new standards. This discord illustrates an ongoing tension between environmental objectives and economic growth, with stakeholders divided on the best path forward.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussion of HB 1975 include the balance between regulatory enforcement and economic viability. Critics argue that the bill may impose excessive restrictions that could harm local businesses, especially in sectors that rely heavily on fossil fuels. Proponents, however, assert that transitioning to cleaner energy can simultaneously drive economic growth and job creation in emerging sectors. The debate underscores the competing interests of environmental sustainability and economic development, highlighting the need for carefully crafted legislation that addresses both concerns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

LA SB359

Provides for civil forfeiture reform. (8/1/22)

HI SB149

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

HI HB1965

Relating To Property Forfeiture.

CA AB1317

Asset forfeiture: human trafficking.

AZ HB2324

Forfeiture; digital assets; reserve fund

KS HB2606

Specifying that certain drug offenses do not give rise to forfeiture under the Kansas standard asset seizure and forfeiture act, requiring courts to make a finding that forfeiture is not excessive, restricting actions prior to commencement of forfeiture proceedings, requiring probable cause affidavit filing and review to commence proceedings, increasing the burden of proof required to forfeit property to clear and convincing evidence and authorizing courts to order payment of attorney fees and costs for certain claimants.

CA AB603

Asset forfeiture: human trafficking.

KS SB458

Specifying that certain drug offenses do not give rise to forfeiture under the Kansas standard asset seizure and forfeiture act, providing limitations on state and local law enforcement agency requests for federal adoption of a seizure under the act, requiring probable cause affidavit filing and review to commence forfeiture proceedings, increasing the burden of proof required to forfeit property to clear and convincing evidence, authorizing courts to order payment of attorney fees and costs for certain claimants and requiring the Kansas bureau of investigation to submit forfeiture fund financial reports to the legislature.