Texas Senate Bill SB1335

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the recycling of oil and gas waste.

Impact

The bill requires the Texas Commission to adopt rules that set minimum siting standards for commercial recycling pits, as well as uniform technical and construction standards for the recycling of fluid oil and gas waste. It also stipulates conditions for the financial security of commercial recyclers, which may significantly impact the operational aspects of waste management in the oil and gas sector. One crucial element is the approval process for permit applications, which must be resolved by the commission within 90 days; if not, the application is automatically considered approved following this deadline.

Summary

SB1335 aims to regulate the recycling of oil and gas waste in Texas by amending Section 122.004 of the Natural Resources Code. The bill includes provisions that establish uniformity in the treatment and handling of both commercial and noncommercial recycling of fluid oil and gas waste. It mandates that rules established by the commission shall not differ in the treatment of these two sectors, which is intended to streamline the regulations applicable to oil and gas waste recycling processes.

Contention

Despite its regulatory intent, SB1335 may face contention regarding its potential implications for local control over waste management practices. Critics may argue that the establishment of uniform standards could dilute local regulations that are deemed necessary to address specific environmental concerns unique to regional contexts. Furthermore, stakeholders involved in the oil and gas sector may express concerns regarding the financial implications tied to the required bonding and financial security for commercial recyclers, which might pose a barrier to smaller entities within the industry.