Bill > HB853

This bill modifies the Texas Health and Safety Code to establish new requirements for issuing air quality permits in areas designated as nonattainment areas under the federal Clean Air Act. Specifically, when the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality reviews permits for major stationary sources in these areas, they must now conduct a comprehensive analysis that evaluates alternative locations, sizes, production processes, and environmental control techniques. The analysis must demonstrate that the facility's benefits significantly outweigh its environmental and social costs, and must consider cumulative impacts that would result from issuing the permit without changing the site's characteristics. The bill defines "major stationary source" and "major modification" by referencing federal regulations as they existed on January 1, 2025. The changes will apply only to permit applications pending on or after the effective date, which is September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to provide a more thorough environmental review process for industrial facilities in areas that do not meet federal air quality standards.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB853