TX
Texas House Bill HB575

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB575

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to preparation for and response to weather emergencies that affect certain natural gas facilities; increasing the amount of civil and administrative penalties.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB575 are expected to significantly affect the regulatory landscape concerning natural gas facilities. By mandating that operators implement preparedness measures, the bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events, which have become increasingly frequent. Additionally, the bill raises the penalties for non-compliance, with fines escalating based on the number of violations. These modifications aim to incentivize operators to prioritize emergency preparedness and compliance with state guidelines.

Summary

House Bill 575 focuses on enhancing the preparedness and response mechanisms for weather emergencies affecting natural gas facilities in Texas. It aims to amend existing regulations under both the Natural Resources Code and the Utilities Code by introducing mandatory measures for gas supply chain operators. These measures will require operators to be proactive in preparing for weather emergencies, aligning their actions with forecasts provided by the state climatologist.

Contention

There is potential for contention surrounding the enforcement and implications of the increased penalties outlined in the bill. Critics may argue that the elevated fines could disproportionately affect smaller operators who may struggle to comply with the new requirements, leading to calls for more supportive measures rather than punitive actions. Furthermore, discussions around the sufficiency of resources available to operators for effective implementation of the new standards could also emerge, emphasizing the need for balance between regulation and business feasibility.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Natural Resources Code

  • Chapter 86. Regulation Of Natural Gas
    • Section: 044
    • Section: 222

Utilities Code

  • Chapter 121. Gas Pipelines
    • Section: 2015
    • Section: 206

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3181

Relating to preparation for and response to weather emergencies that affect certain natural gas facilities; increasing the amount of civil and administrative penalties.

TX HB3244

Relating to the operation of certain infrastructure during a weather emergency; authorizing administrative penalties.

TX SB1874

Relating to the operation of certain infrastructure during a weather emergency; authorizing administrative penalties.

TX HB4984

Relating to reporting by operators of certain gas supply chain facilities and gas pipeline facilities on a failure to perform a contractual obligation due to a weather emergency.

TX SB2111

Relating to reporting by operators of certain gas supply chain facilities and gas pipeline facilities on a failure to perform a contractual obligation due to a weather emergency.

TX HB4786

Relating to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Railroad Commission of Texas; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4118

Relating to service provided to residential customers by certain gas utilities during weather emergencies; authorizing a civil penalty.

TX HB4790

Relating to the provision of natural gas by and rates charged by certain gas utilities.

TX SB2110

Relating to the provision of natural gas by and rates charged by certain gas utilities.

TX HB1500

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.