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 but also the state senator and representative for the area where the facility related to the permit application is located or proposed. This addition aims to ensure that elected officials representing the local community are recognized as stakeholders 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 involvement of local representatives in environmental decision-making processes, thereby potentially increasing accountability and responsiveness to community concerns.

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