H.B. No. 4450 amends the Natural Resources Code to establish new procedures for the Texas Historical Commission regarding the approval of certain projects and permit applications. Key changes include the stipulation that no ground can be broken on state public land for projects that involve locations or structures listed in the National Register of Historic Places if such projects would significantly alter the historic or cultural character of those sites. Additionally, the bill mandates that the committee must create rules to implement these new procedures.

The bill also introduces a requirement for the committee to publish notice of demolition permit applications in the Texas Register at least 30 days prior to any action on the application. Interested parties are granted the right to challenge the issuance of a demolition permit, and the committee may only issue the permit if the applicant can demonstrate that the demolition serves the public interest. Furthermore, the amendments specify that certain provisions do not apply to buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The changes will take effect for applications filed on or after January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 191.0525, Natural Resources Code 191.054, Natural Resources Code 191.098 (Natural Resources Code 191)