BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 1177
80R9588 SLO-D By: Brimer, Harris
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Discussions surrounding the use of different advanced control technologies to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions have occurred, but there have been no pilot tests conducted to identify the effectiveness or feasibility of these technologies. Currently, there is no statute concerning specific advanced control technologies for cement kilns.
As proposed, S.B. 1177 directs the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to test selective catalytic reduction technology to reduce nitrogen oxides emissions on a cement kiln located in a nonattainment area or near nonattainment area.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to any state officer, institution, or agency.
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION TECHNOLOGY PILOT.
(a) Requires the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to select one cement kiln stack (kiln) in a nonattainment or near nonattainment area to conduct a pilot test to determine the effectiveness of a selective catalytic reduction technology (technology) as an advanced control technology for reducing nitrogen oxides emissions (emissions) from the kiln. Requires TCEQ to select a technology vendor to provide the technology needed to conduct the testing required by this subsection.
(b) Requires TCEQ to design, supervise, and monitor the testing required by Subsection (a) of this section in consultation with certain persons and verify the accuracy of the testing results.
(c) Authorizes TCEQ to accept and hold a gift or grant conditioned on its use for testing advanced controls for nitrogen oxides emissions from kilns in a nonattainment or near nonattainment area and use such gifts or grants without an appropriation for the pilot test under this section.
(d) Sets forth dates by which TCEQ is required to complete certain actions if this Act takes effect before July 31, 2007.
(e) Sets forth dates by which TCEQ is required to complete certain actions if this Act takes effect on or after July 31, 2007.
(f) Requires TCEQ to complete the technology testing required under Subsection (a) of this section not later than December 31, 2008 and to prepare and deliver to each member of the legislature a report including certain information not later than January 1, 2009.
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2007.