Loading....

We Need a TCEQ that Works for People, Not Polluters

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is getting its performance evaluation from state lawmakers. By the end of this legislative session, lawmakers will pass legislation to give the agency that is supposed to protect our communities from corporate polluters its marching orders for the next decade.

The agency has been called a “reluctant regulator” that too often sides with industries that pollute our air, land and water. It’s something we have heard repeatedly from everyday Texans.

The legislation – called a “Sunset” bill – is up before the Senate Committee on Natural Resources & Economic Development. Contact the committee today and demand a TCEQ that works for people, not polluters.

SEND YOUR EMAIL

First Name*

Last Name*

Email Address*

Address, line 1

City*

State*

Zip Code*

Receive text updates from Public Citizen:

222 - Subtopic - Texas

Yes No

111 - Topic - Climate & Energy

Yes No

EMAIL NOW

Contact Us Contribute Careers/Internships Privacy Policy

© 2023 Public Citizen. This web site is shared by Public Citizen Inc. and Public Citizen Foundation.
Learn more about the distinction between these two components of Public Citizen.

Texas Senate Committee on Natural Resources & Economic Development

Subject: We need a better TCEQ

Message:

Please improve Senate Bill 1397, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Sunset bill. The agency reviewing the TCEQ called it a “reluctant regulator,” which is unacceptable. Too many Texans stand to be harmed if the TCEQ can’t hold polluters accountable. This is especially true for vulnerable communities. I largely support the bill as filed. It does need a few fixes: - Align the deadline to request a contested case hearing on a permit with the deadline to submit public comments. - Clarify that virtual public meetings will not replace existing in-person meetings. I also think Texas could go further in reforming the TCEQ. I ask that you push for the following improvements when moving the bill forward: - Direct the TCEQ to consider the cumulative effects on health of approving multiple air permits in the same neighborhoods. - Consider environmental justice in permitting and enforcement. - Remove “economic development” from the agency’s mission statement, which has led the agency to protect industry interests over public health. Sunset review is a rare opportunity to improve the agencies that serve Texas taxpayers. Please use this opportunity to bring real change to an agency that needs it.

Characters remaining:

Join Today Contact Us Contribute Careers & Internships Privacy Policy

We Need a TCEQ that Works for People, Not Polluters

SEND YOUR EMAIL

Thank you for taking the initiative!

Donate today!

Share on social media!