What this is
Texas law will set limits on hydrogen sulfide pollution to protect our air and health.
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.
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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.
Key details
- Adoption deadline: December 1, 2026
- Residential area limit: 0.04 parts per million (30-minute average)
- Other area limit: 0.06 parts per million (30-minute average)
- Review frequency: At least once every 5 years
- Sponsor: Ron Reynolds
About Texas Legislature
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes stat…
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Why it matters
This is part of Our Environment — environment, climate, and the land we share.
How this affects households
Under $30,000
Families in this bracket often live in neighborhoods closer to industrial areas where air pollution is worse. This law will help protect their health by reducing toxic gas in the air they breathe.
$30,000-$60,000
Working families in this bracket will benefit from cleaner air and stronger health protections, especially if they live or work near industrial sites.
$60,000-$100,000
Middle-income households will see improved air quality in their communities. The law doesn't directly change their household costs but protects their family's health.
Over $100,000
Higher-income families already tend to live in areas with better air quality. They'll benefit from statewide cleaner air but may see the smallest change in their daily lives.
How to get involved
- 1Start with the snapshot above to know what this is in a glance.
- 2Read why it matters so you can speak to it in your own words.
- 3Weigh in using the button above.
When you call, you can say: “Hi, I saw "Texas Sets Limits on Hydrogen Sulfide Pollution" on Community Exchange and want to know how to take part.”
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