Senator Birdwell advances HB 4112 to clarify nuclear waste storage regulations in Texas

May 26, 2025 | Senate, Legislative, Texas


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Senator Birdwell advances HB 4112 to clarify nuclear waste storage regulations in Texas
The Texas Senate convened on May 26, 2025, to address several key legislative items, focusing on bills related to nuclear waste management, property owner rights, and public safety enhancements.

The session began with Senator Birdwell introducing a motion to suspend the regular order of business to discuss Committee Substitute for House Bill 4112. This bill aims to clarify the storage of high-level radioactive waste at nuclear power reactors and university-operated research facilities, ensuring that such facilities can store waste generated on-site while maintaining Texas's stance against becoming a repository for high-level waste. The motion passed without objection, and the bill was subsequently amended to correct drafting errors before moving to final passage, which also received unanimous support.

Next, Senator Hinojosa sought to suspend the order to consider House Bill 621, which protects property owners' rights by preventing homeowners associations (HOAs) from restricting access to common areas for political candidates and officials. The bill passed through all readings without objection, reinforcing the importance of political dialogue in community spaces.

Senator Hughes then introduced House Bill 5659, aimed at updating the operational procedures of the Northeast Texas Municipal Water District. The bill passed after a brief discussion and amendment to align with existing practices regarding interbasin water transfers.

Senator Campbell moved to address House Concurrent Resolution 118, which supports the expansion of Texas's warship manufacturing industry, emphasizing its potential for economic growth and national security. The resolution was adopted unanimously.

Senator Hoffman presented House Bill 2073, which increases penalties for violations of protective orders in cases involving family violence when the offender possesses a deadly weapon. This bill also passed swiftly, reflecting a commitment to enhancing protections for vulnerable populations.

Further discussions included House Bill 2080, which authorizes the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to review groundwater district actions, and House Bill 4063, which establishes procedures for filing unilateral contracts concerning residential property. Both bills passed through the Senate with minimal debate.

Senator Middleton introduced House Bill 1403, aimed at protecting the privacy rights of foster families regarding firearm information. The bill passed after a brief discussion, highlighting the need for privacy in foster care settings.

The session concluded with a series of bills addressing various issues, including House Bill 2569, which increases penalties for indecent assault against vulnerable individuals, and House Bill 3689, which strengthens the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association's funding mechanisms. Both bills received unanimous support, underscoring the Senate's commitment to public safety and disaster preparedness.

Overall, the Senate session demonstrated a proactive approach to legislative issues affecting Texas residents, with a focus on clarity in law, protection of rights, and enhancement of public safety measures.

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