Texas House Bill HB935

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 12/8/22

Caption

Relating to public comments on matters subject to a hearing under the jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Impact

The proposed changes from HB 935 are anticipated to enhance the transparency and openness of the public comment process when it comes to environmental quality matters. By officially mandating that public comments are not only collected but also considered in the decision-making processes, the bill aims to empower citizens and ensure that their voices are heard in environmental decision-making at the state level. This measure may lead to increased public engagement and subsequent adjustments in the handling of permit applications based on community feedback.

Summary

House Bill 935 seeks to amend the Water Code in Texas regarding public comments on matters that fall under the jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The bill stipulates that the executive director of the TCEQ is required to respond to public comments that are relevant and material during the preliminary decision phase of permit applications. This response would be documented and included in the official records that are accessible to stakeholders involved in the permit process, including the applicants and commenters.

Sentiment

Generally, discussions around HB 935 appear to be positive, particularly among advocates for environmental accountability and community involvement. Proponents argue that the bill represents a significant step toward enhancing public oversight over environmental regulations and decisions made by the TCEQ. However, there may also be concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed measures and whether they would lead to substantial changes in current practices regarding public engagement.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 935 could revolve around the implementation details of how public comments will be reviewed and addressed. Some may argue that simply requiring a response does not guarantee that public concerns will have a meaningful impact on the final decisions made by the TCEQ. Additionally, there might be skepticism about whether the commission has adequate resources to handle increased public involvement and whether this could lead to potential delays in the permitting process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

• Chapter 5. Texas Commission On Environmental Quality
  • Section: 555