TX SB561

Creates the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to protect the public health, welfare, and property of environmental justice communities regarding permit issuance

Defines "environmental justice community" as a census block group where 30% or more of residents have income below 200% of the federal poverty level, OR where 50% or more of residents are racial or ethnic minorities

Requires the Office to review and provide recommendations to TCEQ on permit applications for facilities located within three miles of an environmental justice community, considering cumulative pollution effects and community vulnerabilities

Mandates the Office to evaluate existing pollution levels, health care access, prevalence of asthma and cancer, and proximity to schools, day-care centers, hospitals, places of worship, and residences when making recommendations

Applies to permit applications submitted on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, with the Office not required to issue recommendations until January 1, 2026