SRC-MKV H.B. 2844 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 2844 By: Lewis, Glenn (Moncrief) Health & Human Services 5/9/2001 Engrossed DIGEST AND PURPOSE The City of Fort Worth is granted authority by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a pilot project named Project XL that allows the city to develop an alternative method to address asbestos removal in structures set for demolition. The alternative method currently being considered by the city does not require asbestos removal prior to demolition, does not adversely affect public health, and saves the city money in the demolition process. H.B. 2844 gives the Texas Board of Health the option of exempting a demolition or renovation project from state rules relating to asbestos removal or abatement prior to demolition or renovation. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 12, Texas Asbestos Health Protection Act (Article 4477-3a, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes), by adding Subsection (o), to authorize the Texas Board of Health to exempt a demolition or renovation project from the rules relating to demolition and renovation activities adopted under Subsection (k) under certain conditions. SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2001.