The bill amends the definition of "affected person" in the context of contested case hearings held by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regarding certain environmental permit applications. Specifically, it clarifies that an "affected person" includes not only individuals with a personal justiciable interest related to legal rights or economic interests but also explicitly recognizes the state senator and representative for the area where the facility related to the permit application is located as affected persons. This inclusion aims to ensure that local elected officials have a formal role in the permit application process.

The changes introduced by this bill will apply only to applications filed with the TCEQ on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025. Applications submitted before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative update seeks to enhance the representation of local interests in environmental decision-making processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 5.115 (Water Code 5)