Relating to monitoring air contaminant emissions in certain counties.
If implemented, HB826 would require the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to install air quality monitors that will provide real-time data on air contaminants. The legislation requires these data to be made publicly available online, thereby enhancing transparency and public awareness regarding air quality issues. Furthermore, the TCEQ will be tasked with creating an annual report analyzing the monitor data, which will help in assessing compliance with national air quality standards and recommending legislative or regulatory actions to address any health concerns that arise.
House Bill 826 is aimed at enhancing the monitoring of air contaminant emissions in specific counties in Texas, particularly those adjacent to counties with large populations and housing coal-fired electric generating facilities. The bill mandates the establishment of air quality monitors in these counties to closely track air contaminant levels specified on the state's air pollutant watch list. This monitoring is crucial for understanding the impact of emissions on local air quality and public health.
While the specifics of public or legislative contention surrounding HB826 haven't been detailed in the documents provided, the bill's focus on air quality monitoring suggests potential discussions regarding the balance between economic interests (e.g., coal energy) and the need for environmental protection. Stakeholders may include environmentalists advocating for stricter regulations, as well as industry representatives who may be concerned about the implications of increased regulatory oversight on coal-fired power generation and associated operations.