Texas Sets Limits on Hydrogen Sulfide Pollution

Texas is taking action to protect our community from harmful air pollution. HB 302 is a new state law that will set limits on hydrogen sulfide emissions. This toxic gas damages our air quality and harms people's health, especially those living near industrial sites. The law directs the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to create specific rules by December 1, 2026. These rules will set maximum allowable concentrations of hydrogen sulfide. Near homes, businesses, and recreational areas, the limit will be 0.04 parts per million measured over any 30-minute period. In other areas, the limit will be slightly higher at 0.06 parts per million. The rules can be different based on how land is used. Lower limits protect residential neighborhoods and commercial districts. Higher limits apply only to agricultural and industrial areas. The commission must review these limits at least every five years using the latest health studies. This means our standards can improve as we learn more about how hydrogen sulfide affects our health. Violations of these limits will be treated as serious offenses, giving enforcement agencies stronger tools to hold polluters accountable. Our community benefits from cleaner air and stronger protections for families and workers. This law shows Texas is committed to environmental quality and public health.