Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB816

Caption

Relating to the regulation by certain municipalities of disposable plastic bag use.

Impact

The enactment of SB816 would alter the current state of local governance regarding environmental regulations, specifically around waste management and pollution. By giving smaller municipalities the authority to regulate disposable plastic bags, the bill aims to enhance community efforts in managing their environmental footprint. The requirement for documentation and public hearings represents a push for accountability and ensures that local residents have a voice in decisions affecting their community's environment.

Summary

SB816 proposes new regulations for municipalities regarding the use of disposable plastic bags. Specifically, it allows municipalities with populations under 300,000 that hold a Phase I municipal separate storm sewer system permit to adopt ordinances that may restrict or prohibit the use of such bags. This bill mandates that any ordinance must be supported by a report detailing its potential effects, especially concerning the municipality's storm sewer system. The findings must be presented at a public hearing before any legislation is passed, fostering transparency and public input in the regulatory process.

Contention

As with many environmental regulations, SB816 may face contention over its implications for local control and the balance of regulatory power. Proponents argue that it empowers municipalities to act in their own interest, while critics may contend that it introduces undue complexity and could burden local governments with more requirements. The limitation of the ordinances' effect to three years without a new tax or fee related to plastic bags is likely a point of discussion in the legislative arena, raising questions about sustainability and ongoing financial implications for municipalities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB330

Relating to the resilience of the electric grid and certain municipalities.

TX HB4957

Relating to the regulation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the discharge of preproduction plastic.

TX HB3169

Relating to regulation of short-term rental units by certain municipalities.

TX HB1412

Relating to the resilience of the electric grid and certain municipalities; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB3135

Relating to the review, adoption, and modification of land development regulations by certain municipalities, counties, and special districts.

TX HB149

Relating to the sale of park land owned by certain municipalities.

TX SB2453

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX SB39

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX HB3060

Relating to the regulation of recycling and recycled products.

TX HB4749

Relating to the authority of economic development corporations created by certain rural municipalities to undertake infrastructure planning projects.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.