Ellen Troxclair, a Texas state representative, announced the introduction of House Bill 3482 aimed at mitigating the impact of rock quarries on her constituents. The bill seeks to limit new mining operations near lakes, state parks, and youth camps. Troxclair made this statement to the Daily Tribune on March 4.
"We are very concerned about what's going on with the rock quarries," said Troxclair. "We've really been kind of laser-focused on what we can do to make sure that the community's concerns are heard."
According to Texas Legislature Online, House Bill 3482 would restrict the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) from issuing permits for quarries and mines near environmentally sensitive areas. Specifically, it impacts mining operations within four miles of an LCRA-owned lake, four miles of two or more state parks or caverns, and two miles of a state-licensed youth camp. The legislation would take effect on September 1, 2025, applying only to new permit applications submitted after that date.
Troxclair has also filed a motion challenging the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) approval of an air-quality permit for Asphalt Inc.'s rock-crushing facility in Burnet County. The permit allows operations up to 2,640 hours per year with a processing capacity of 200 tons per hour. Troxclair claims TCEQ failed to assess risks adequately, citing concerns over air pollution, threats to endangered species, and proximity to Camp Longhorn—a site where hundreds of children stay in open-air cabins. If successful, her motion could lead to the revocation of the permit.
MYSA reports that Asphalt Inc., a construction materials company specializing in aggregate production such as rock, gravel, and asphalt, has faced community opposition due to environmental concerns associated with its Texas operations. The proposed rock-crushing plant near Burnet has particularly raised issues related to air, water, and noise pollution.
According to the Texas House records, Troxclair represents Blanco, Burnet, Gillespie, Kendall, and western Travis Counties. Elected in 2022, she has served on various legislative committees and is known for advocating property tax relief, border security measures, and protections for women's sports. A former Austin City Council member, she is also a small business owner and nonprofit leader.
