The bill, H.B. No. 4400, amends Section 7.067 of the Water Code to enhance the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) authority regarding supplemental environmental projects. It introduces new subsections (d), (e), and (f) that outline specific types of projects that local governments can undertake as part of these initiatives. These projects include the purchase and maintenance of alternative fuel vehicles and heavy equipment, the construction of alternative fuel refueling infrastructure, and energy efficiency upgrades for government-owned buildings. Additionally, the bill mandates that the TCEQ must allow the full cost of alternative fuel vehicles and related equipment to be included in project funding, rather than just the cost difference compared to conventional vehicles.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that contracts for supplemental environmental projects cannot be less than five years in duration and must be renewable for at least five-year periods. This change aims to provide more flexibility and support for local governments in implementing environmentally beneficial projects. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 7.067 (Water Code 7)