Today the Texas Senate took a historic step in promoting the use of alternative fuels produced in Texas. Senate Bill 12 by Senator Carlos Uresti will create a program that will convert the state fleet to natural gas and other alternative fuels, as well as fund the construction of a limited number of fueling stations.
    “We’ve spent the last several weeks talking and negotiating with stakeholders and my colleagues. I feel we have crafted a better bill because of the input we have received, and I am happy to send the bill over to the House and urge my House colleagues to send SB 12 to the Governor’s desk as soon as possible.” said Uresti.
    SB 12 will create the program at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and will use 3 percent of the unappropriated portion of the Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP) account. County and local fleets will also be eligible for fleet conversion funding as available.
    “Natural gas is cleaner than the fuels we are using now. And importantly—it’s plentiful in my district and in Texas. For the constituents I represent, that means jobs and a boost to our economy. I am excited to get this program rolling.” said Uresti.