Vote NO on HB 2790!

Please vote no on HB 2790. This bill prevents most claims from Texans affected or injured by carbon capture, use, and storage (CCUS) infrastructure, requiring a high burden of proof from the claimant. The burden of proof in HB 2790 is so high that this bill effectively removes liability from companies all along the CCUS supply chain when they cause noneconomic damages like loss of consortium, disfigurement, physical impairment, and other significant damages. CCUS infrastructure has not been widely deployed throughout Texas yet. Federal tax incentives and a push for Texas to have full authority over permitting and oversight of carbon injection wells could unleash rapid carbon infrastructure deployment including capture facilities, pipelines, and underground injection wells. Many facilities have requested new permits in areas that are urban or sub-urban, putting more people into close contact with facilities that can be dangerous. A 2020 pipeline rupture caused by a Texas-based pipeline operator caused a plume of CO2 to form over a roadway, displacing oxygen, and causing dozens of drivers to experience hypoxia and go to the hospital. Some of those affected are experiencing chronic short term memory loss and respiratory problems. These are the kinds of damages that would be unrecoverable if HB 2790 passes. Leaks from carbon dioxide injection wells have potential to acidify groundwater or cause heavy metals to contaminate groundwater. We can’t afford to lose more freshwater resources in Texas. Companies need to face full liability if they cause damages. Removing liability this early will set up the industry to cut corners from the start - putting more Texans at risk. Please vote no on HB 2790, to protect public health and safety in the wake of CCUS infrastructure buildout.