Texas Senate Bill SB990

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the consideration of floodplain maps in the permitting of certain solid waste facilities.

Impact

The adoption of SB990 would directly impact the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's decision-making processes regarding waste facilities located in areas identified as floodplains. The inclusion of local flood maps in the permitting process reflects an effort to make informed decisions based on the most current and relevant data available, thereby enhancing public safety and environmental protection. Local floodplain managers are empowered by this bill to submit updated information about flood risks ensuring that the permitting authority is aware of specific risk zones within their jurisdictions.

Summary

Senate Bill 990 aims to amend the current laws regarding solid waste facilities by requiring the consideration of local flood maps when permitting municipal solid waste landfills and transfer stations located within floodplains. This legislation recognizes the importance of updated, locally sourced floodplain information in the permitting process to ensure better environmental and community safety concerning waste management practices. By integrating local flood maps, the bill seeks to protect areas prone to flooding from the potential hazards posed by waste facilities during severe weather events.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve flood safety standards for waste management, there may be contention regarding the practical implementation and potential delays it could create in the permitting process. Critics might argue that relying on local flood maps may introduce variability in permitting standards across different regional jurisdictions, potentially complicating the regulations for waste facilities that are already challenged by existing state laws. Furthermore, the liability protection granted to local floodplain managers may raise concerns about accountability and the accuracy of the maps submitted, warranting further discussion and possibly amendments to ensure fairness and clarity.