Bill > SB2037

This bill establishes streamlined permitting procedures specifically for liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal projects in Texas. The bill requires the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to create an expedited permit review process for LNG export terminal projects, where applicants will pay an additional fee to cover the costs of faster processing. The commission is authorized to use overtime, additional employees, or contract labor to handle these expedited applications without counting against existing staffing limits. For contested case hearings related to these permits, the bill mandates that parties requesting a hearing must specifically explain why they are an "affected person" and requires administrative law judges to conduct a preliminary hearing within 60 days of the application referral, with a possible 15-day extension. The bill also requires the executive director to provide responses to permit applications within 120 days after the public comment period closes. These new procedures will apply only to LNG export terminal permit applications filed on or after September 1, 2025, with pending applications continuing under existing rules. The goal appears to be accelerating the permitting process for LNG export terminal projects while maintaining environmental review standards.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2037