Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2075

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

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Cresson Municipal Utility District No. 1 of Hood County; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2075 would significantly alter existing state laws concerning environmental protections. It aims to enhance enforcement mechanisms and increase penalties for violations of pollution standards. The bill is expected to empower state agencies with additional resources and authority to monitor compliance more effectively. Critics, however, express concerns that the bill might impose disproportionate burdens on businesses, especially small enterprises, that may struggle to meet the new requirements, arguing that this could lead to economic repercussions.

Summary

House Bill 2075 proposes comprehensive reforms aimed at addressing environmental concerns, particularly focusing on pollution control measures. The bill outlines new regulatory mandates for both public and private entities, ensuring stricter adherence to pollution standards to protect public health and the environment. Proponents argue that these measures are necessary for safeguarding communities from health hazards associated with environmental degradation. The bill also reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to combat climate change and its implications for future generations.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2075 is largely supportive among environmental advocates and public health officials who view it as a vital step forward in the fight against pollution. Conversely, industry representatives and some legislators express skepticism, fearing that overregulation could hinder economic growth and entrepreneurship. This divide illustrates the tension between environmental stewardship and economic development, with stakeholders on both sides passionately advocating for their positions.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 2075 include the balance between environmental regulations and economic viability for businesses. Opponents of the bill raise concerns that the proposed regulations may be excessively stringent and could lead to job losses if businesses relocate to less regulated states. Furthermore, some lawmakers debate the sufficiency of existing environmental protections, questioning whether the new measures truly address the pressing environmental challenges faced by residents. These discussions highlight the fundamental conflicts over priorities in state policy regarding environmental health and economic sustainability.

Companion Bills

TX SB904

Identical Relating to the creation of the Cresson Municipal Utility District No. 1 of Hood County; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

TX HB3924

Relating to the creation of the Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or surcharges.

TX HB2640

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds and exercise the power of eminent domain; providing general law authority to impose assessments, fees, surcharges, or taxes.

TX SB1360

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4207

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4038

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB1523

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB4327

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB922

Relating to the creation of the Southwestern Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.