Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB896

Caption

Relating to air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for certain oil and gas facilities.

Impact

The legislation enforces significant changes to existing regulations concerning emissions from oil and gas operations. Key requirements include limits on the venting and flaring of gas, stringent protocols for emissions from storage tanks, and best practices for maintenance of compressor stations. By establishing these guidelines, the bill is expected to reduce volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides emissions from these facilities, ultimately contributing to better air quality and public health outcomes in the state.

Summary

House Bill 896 aims to enhance environmental protections related to air quality for oil and gas facilities in Texas. The bill introduces stricter permits and requires both new and modified facilities to adhere to comprehensive inspection and maintenance programs for identifying and repairing leaks from various operational components. By mandating quarterly inspections, the bill seeks to mitigate the emission of fugitive air pollutants, which could significantly impact air quality in surrounding areas.

Contention

Despite the environmental benefits proposed by HB896, there are likely points of contention among stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, who may see the bill as imposing additional regulatory burdens. The legislation's specifics regarding leak detection methods, such as the use of optical gas imaging cameras, could also raise concerns about compliance costs and operational feasibility for some facilities. As such, the discourse surrounding this bill may reflect a balancing act between environmental responsibilities and the economic implications for the oil and gas sector.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2227

Relating to the analysis of inspection and maintenance requirements for air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for certain oil and gas facilities.

TX HB2905

Relating to air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB26

Relating to the permitting of medical waste facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB173

Relating to the permitting of medical waste facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB4957

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

TX HB766

Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB3855

Relating to projects that may be considered for a grant under the new technology implementation grant program administered by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB1719

Relating to the permitting processes of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB223

Relating to public meetings held by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality on the permitting of wastewater treatment facilities.

TX HB3666

Relating to judicial review of certain permitting decisions made by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.