TITLE: Relating to a study concerning the presence and effects of plastic microbeads in water in the state.

SUMMARY: Relating to a study concerning the presence and effects of plastic microbeads in water in the state.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to a study concerning the presence and effects of plastic microbeads in water in the state. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter B, Chapter 26, Water Code, is amended by adding Section 26.0134 to read as follows: Sec. 26.0134. STUDY ON EFFECTS OF PLASTIC MICROBEADS IN WATER. (a) In this section, "plastic microbead" means a nonbiodegradable solid plastic particle measuring five millimeters or less in size that is intentionally added to a cosmetic or personal care product. (b) The commission shall conduct a study to determine: (1) the extent of the presence of plastic microbeads in water in the state; and (2) whether the presence of plastic microbeads in water in the state causes pollution of that water. (c) Not later than December 1, 2016, the commission shall provide to the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the legislature a report containing: (1) the results of the study conducted under this section; and (2) if the commission determines that the presence of plastic microbeads in water in the state causes pollution of that water, recommendations for reducing or eliminating the pollution, including consideration of the regulation or ban of plastic microbeads in cosmetics and other personal care products. (d) This section expires September 1, 2017. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.