Bill > HB4835

This bill requires operators of hazardous liquid, carbon dioxide, and anthropogenic carbon dioxide pipeline and storage facilities to prepare comprehensive facility response plans that assess local emergency response capabilities. If the plans reveal that local fire, police, or emergency response entities are inadequately equipped to handle a potential worst-case discharge or substantial environmental threat, the facility operator must pay these emergency response entities an amount sufficient to improve their preparedness. These payments must be deposited into a restricted fund controlled by the governing body of the emergency response entity and can only be used to obtain necessary equipment or training specifically related to responding to potential industrial discharge scenarios. The Railroad Commission of Texas is tasked with implementing these new requirements and must adopt the necessary rules by March 1, 2026, with the new provisions applying to permit applications submitted after the rules take effect. The bill aims to enhance environmental safety and local emergency preparedness by ensuring that industrial facilities contribute to the readiness of local emergency response teams in areas where potentially hazardous substances are transported or stored.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4835