BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2663

By: Chisum

Energy Resources

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Currently, the Railroad Commission of Texas regulates liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). To that end, the commission adopts nationally recognized standards for the LPG industry in Texas and, if necessary, adjusts those standards to protect the health, welfare, and safety of the general public.  Local political subdivisions also regulate the LPG industry within their respective jurisdictions.  Interested parties contend that these local regulations are often inconsistent or conflict with the rules adopted by the railroad commission and nationally recognized LPG standards.  H.B. 2663 seeks to ensure consistent statewide regulation of the LPG industry.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 2663 amends the Natural Resources Code to establish that the rules and standards promulgated and adopted by the Railroad Commission of Texas under the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code preempt and supersede any ordinance, order, or rule adopted by a political subdivision of the state relating to any aspect or phase of the liquefied petroleum gas industry.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2011.