Bill > HB3556

This bill establishes a new notification and review process for construction of tall structures (over 575 feet) in specific counties in Texas that either border the Gulf of Mexico and contain a national wildlife refuge or are adjacent to such counties with a population under 500,000. Under the new law, before beginning construction, a person must submit a request to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for review at least 90 days in advance. The department then has 45 days to recommend measures to minimize the project's impact on migratory birds. If the department does not respond within the specified timeframe, construction can proceed without delay. If the department provides recommendations, the construction entity must respond within 45 days, either accepting the recommendations or proposing alternative mitigation measures. If the department does not accept the alternative measures, the person is entitled to an administrative hearing. The bill also specifies that information submitted during this process is not subject to public disclosure under the state's open records law. The new requirements will apply only to construction projects beginning 90 days after the act's effective date, which is contingent on receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3556