The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has recently imposed fines amounting to $504,148 against several entities for violating state environmental regulations. The penalties were approved during a meeting held on January 10, 2024.
According to the TCEQ, a total of 15 regulated entities were found to be in violation of environmental regulations and were consequently penalized. The violations were categorized into various areas, including air quality, Edwards Aquifer, municipal wastewater discharges, petroleum storage tank, and water quality. Agreed orders were issued for three air quality violations, one Edwards Aquifer violation, seven municipal wastewater discharges, one petroleum storage tank violation, and two water quality violations.
In addition to the agreed orders, a default order was issued for one municipal wastewater discharge violation. Furthermore, the executive director of the TCEQ approved additional penalties on December 19, 2023, and January 9, 2024, totaling $71,530 against 25 entities.
The TCEQ encourages the public to stay informed about its activities and agenda. The agenda items from the recent meeting can be viewed on the TCEQ website, and the next agenda meeting is scheduled for January 24, 2024. For those interested, the meetings can be watched live on the Agenda Meeting Webcasts webpage or accessed later on the TCEQ YouTube channel. The TCEQ can also be followed on Twitter at @TCEQ.
The TCEQ's enforcement actions and the fines imposed demonstrate the agency's commitment to maintaining and enforcing environmental regulations in the state of Texas. Violations of these regulations can have serious consequences for public health and the environment. The penalties serve as a deterrent and a reminder to regulated entities to adhere to the established standards and ensure the protection of the environment for the benefit of all.
In response to the violations, the TCEQ stated:
"The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality remains dedicated to its mission of protecting public health and the environment. We will continue to enforce the regulations in place and hold accountable those who do not comply."
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/news/releases/tceq-approves-fines-totaling-504-148
