Relating to permit application review and contested case procedures for environmental permits involving a project to construct or modify a liquefied natural gas export terminal; authorizing a fee.
Impact
The implementation of HB3997 will modify existing procedures under the Texas Water Code, particularly enhancing the review and contested case processes for LNG projects. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is mandated to establish specific rules governing this expedited application review. The bill stipulates that all relevant public comments must be addressed within 120 days, ensuring that public input is considered in a timely manner. This could lead to a more efficient processing of applications, thereby potentially accelerating the timeline for new projects to reach execution stage.
Summary
House Bill 3997 aims to streamline the permit application process for constructing or modifying liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals. Specifically, the bill introduces an expedited review process for these environmental permits, which would require applicants to pay an additional fee sufficient to cover the costs of this expedited process. This change is designed to encourage and facilitate investment in LNG infrastructure by reducing bureaucratic delays in permit approvals, addressing a critical area in Texas's energy sector amidst increasing demand for LNG exports.
Contention
While supporters of HB3997 argue that it will promote economic growth and enhance the state's competitiveness in the LNG market, there may be contention surrounding the implications for environmental oversight. Critics may express concerns that the expedited review process could limit thorough assessments of environmental impacts, particularly in regions where LNG projects could affect local ecosystems and communities. The allowance for contested case hearings under certain conditions indicates a balance intended to ensure that stakeholder voices are still heard, even within a faster processing framework.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Water Code
Chapter 5. Texas Commission On Environmental Quality
Identical
Relating to permit application review and contested case procedures for environmental permits involving a project to construct or modify a liquefied natural gas export terminal; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the definition of "affected person" for purposes of a contested case hearing held by or for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding certain environmental permit applications.
Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.
Relating to the procedures for acting on a permit or permit amendment application by a groundwater conservation district and the disqualification of board members of groundwater conservation districts.