Relating to the creation of an advisory panel to study and compile a report on best management practices and funding mechanisms for the prevention, mitigation, and abatement of windblown and waterborne litter and illegal dumping in communities.
Impact
The advisory panel will conduct a thorough study to identify and evaluate existing best management practices across municipal, commercial, industrial, and agricultural domains. Furthermore, it will assess the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in handling these litter issues and explore the feasibility of implementing practices tailored to different regions in Texas. Legislative action may follow based on the panel's findings, particularly if new funding mechanisms or strategies are deemed necessary to enhance litter prevention and management efforts.
Summary
House Bill 2140 proposes the establishment of the Texas Litter and Illegal Dumping Advisory Panel, tasked with studying and compiling best management practices and funding mechanisms for addressing windblown and waterborne litter as well as illegal dumping in communities. The bill outlines a structured approach for the panel's composition, ensuring representation from various relevant state departments such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Public Safety, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, among others. This diverse representation is intended to foster comprehensive insights into the issues of litter and illegal dumping across different sectors and communities in Texas.
Contention
While the bill aims to tackle pressing environmental issues, it may face contention regarding resource allocation and approach. Stakeholders might debate the effectiveness of the proposed strategies and whether the oversight of the advisory panel adequately addresses the unique concerns of local communities that experience illegal dumping or littering. Moreover, the bill's requirement for public meetings suggests an openness to community input, yet the efficacy of such engagements in influencing decision-making remains to be seen. Overall, the passage of HB 2140 has the potential to signify a serious commitment by the Texas legislature to combat litter and enhance community environments.
Relating to establishing the Texas Carbon Emissions Mitigation and Severe Weather Adaptation Commission to study and address the impacts of carbon emissions and severe weather in this state.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.
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.