SRC-MWN S.B. 1561 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1561 77R6723 MI-FBy: Shapleigh Natural Resources 3/21/2001 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Currently, numerous air emission control programs implemented by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) on behalf of the State of Texas and the United States would benefit from the ability to encourage emissions reductions in Mexico. As proposed, S.B. 1561 authorizes the TNRCC to allow the use of emissions reductions achieved outside the United States to satisfy otherwise applicable emissions reduction requirements if certain conditions are met. 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 382.0172, Health and Safety Code, to authorize the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (commission), for purposes of any emission control or permit program adopted or administered by the commission, to accept certain emissions reductions in exchange for other emissions reductions. SECTION 2. Requires the commission to report to the governor and the legislature, not later than January 3, 2003, regarding the implementation of the substitution of emissions reductions. SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2001.