Texas Senate Bill SB1605

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to an expedited permit program for permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Impact

The introduction of SB1605 aims to significantly alter the permit approval landscape within the state of Texas. It sets specific procedural requirements, including the stipulation that permits must be granted or denied within 60 days of application, thereby reducing the duration of waiting periods that can hinder project timelines. Additionally, applicants for expedited permits will be required to pay fees that are no more than double the standard fee for non-expedited permits, which seeks to balance expedited services while ensuring cost recovery for the TCEQ.

Summary

SB1605 establishes an expedited permit program for permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The bill mandates that the TCEQ create a streamlined process for the expedited issuance and renewal of permits, excluding permits by rule, general permits, or standard permits. The primary objective of this legislation is to enhance the efficiency with which permits are issued and renewed, potentially benefitting various stakeholders seeking faster approval processes for environmental activities.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB1605 revolve around the implications of its expedited processes on public involvement and environmental oversight. The bill allows public comments to be submitted only online, which has raised concerns about accessibility and transparency compared to traditional methods that may facilitate greater public engagement. Furthermore, critics argue that the expedited nature of the program could undermine thorough review processes that ensure environmental protections, raising alarms among advocacy groups and local communities who emphasize the importance of comprehensive scrutiny for environmental compliance.