Texas Senate Bill SB1931

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to conduct background checks.

Impact

The implementation of SB1931 has the potential to significantly alter the oversight and regulatory processes surrounding environmental permits in Texas. By enabling TCEQ to access and review criminal history records, the bill seeks to strengthen the integrity of the environmental permitting process. It aims to prevent individuals with criminal histories, particularly those relevant to environmental compliance, from being granted permits that could pose risks to public health or the environment.

Summary

SB1931 amends the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to conduct background checks on individuals involved in the permitting process. The bill allows TCEQ to obtain criminal history record information of applicants for permits, as well as individuals who have an interest in or exercise control over an applicant. This change aims to ensure that the commission can better evaluate the eligibility of individuals involved in environmental permits, particularly in light of ongoing concerns about public safety and regulatory compliance.

Contention

Despite its intended objectives, SB1931 may face opposition from various stakeholders who argue that the expansion of background check authority could lead to overreach. Critics suggest that the legislation might disproportionately impact individuals with minor offenses or those attempting to re-enter the workforce within the environmental sector. This concern raises questions about fairness and the potential unintended consequences of stricter background checks on workforce participation in industries governed by environmental regulations.