Bill Caption

Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

HB 3036 would prohibit the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) from issuing or amending a permit that would authorize the discharge of waste or pollutants into certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone.

Vote Recommendation Notes

The job of the TCEQ is to protect the quality of the environment in Texas. The department is staffed with qualified experts who are able to determine whether the issuance of certain permits does or does not harm the environment or degrade the quality of the water supply in the Edwards Aquifer. The agency should be allowed to perform its duties by evaluating permit applications on their merits and making decisions based on the particular facts of the case. Legislation prohibiting these permits to be issued is arbitrary and therefore diminishes our limited government principle. We oppose HB 3036.