Texas House Bill HB61

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

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

Impact

The bill establishes clear guidelines that enhance accountability for oil and gas facilities. New facilities will be prohibited from venting and have limitations on flaring, while existing modified facilities are required to eliminate venting and reduce flaring. Moreover, it stipulates emissions limitations for volatile organic compounds from storage tanks, creating a tangible standard for facilities to meet in order to operate legally. TCEQ is tasked with creating rules to effectively implement these new standards by a specified deadline.

Summary

House Bill 61 seeks to enhance air quality standards through stricter regulations on air quality permits issued for oil and gas facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The bill mandates that both new and existing modified facilities implement quarterly inspection and maintenance programs aimed at detecting and repairing leaks from various facility components. This aim is to address the growing concerns regarding fugitive emissions that can negatively impact air quality.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, HB 61 is expected to face contention among stakeholders within the oil and gas industry. Proponents of the bill argue that stricter regulations are essential for protecting public health and the environment, citing that the current emissions levels are harmful. On the other hand, opponents may argue that such regulations could impose undue burdens on operators, specifically regarding the costs associated with implementing these new compliance measures. Balancing environmental protection with economic viability will be a central point of debate as discussions around the bill progress.