Texas House Bill HB3636

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the obstruction from public view of flaring at a natural gas liquefaction facility and liquefied natural gas export terminal.

Impact

If enacted, HB3636 would specifically impact the construction and operational standards of natural gas liquefaction facilities and LNG terminals. By requiring that flaring operations be obscured from public view, the bill aims to address public perception issues and enhance the overall community relations of these facilities. Additionally, this change would have implications for environmental standards, as it mandates alterations in facility design that could further affect operational costs and compliance with state regulations.

Summary

House Bill 3636 is a legislative proposal aimed at ensuring that flaring operations at natural gas liquefaction facilities and liquefied natural gas export terminals are obscured from public view. This bill seeks to amend Section 382.051961 of the Health and Safety Code, mandating that any elevated flare stack or ground flare must be constructed in a manner that prevents visibility of flaring activities occurring at these facilities. The intended outcome is to reduce the aesthetic and potential health concerns associated with visible flaring operations in areas near such facilities.

Contention

While the bill appears to promote environmental and aesthetic improvements, it may also face scrutiny from industry stakeholders who might argue that such requirements could lead to increased operational costs or complicate existing compliance protocols. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding the adequacy of current regulatory frameworks in managing the visibility and environmental impacts of flaring, with proponents arguing for the need for stricter regulations while opponents may push back against perceived over-regulation.