IN ADDITION

Office of the Attorney General

The State of Texas Landowner's Bill of Rights

Prepared by THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF TEXAS

This Landowner's Bill of Rights applies to any attempt to condemn your property. The contents of this Bill of Rights are set out by the Texas Legislature in Texas Government Code section 402.031 and chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code. Any entity exercising eminent domain authority must provide a copy of this Bill of Rights to you.

1. You are entitled to receive adequate compensation if your property is condemned.

2. Your property can only be condemned for a public use.

3. Your property can only be condemned by a governmental entity or private entity authorized by law to do so.

4. The entity that wants to acquire your property must notify you that it intends to condemn your property.

5. The entity proposing to acquire your property must provide you with a written appraisal from a certified appraiser detailing the adequate compensation you are owed for your property.

6. If you believe that a registered easement or right-of-way agent acting on behalf of the entity that wants to acquire your property has engaged in misconduct, you may file a written complaint with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) under section 1101.205 of the Texas Occupations Code. The complaint should be signed and may include any supporting evidence.

7. The condemning entity must make a bona fide offer to buy the property before it files a lawsuit to condemn the property-meaning the condemning entity must make a good faith offer that conforms with chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code.

8. You may hire an appraiser or other professional to determine the value of your property or to assist you in any condemnation proceeding.

9. You may hire an attorney to negotiate with the condemning entity and to represent you in any legal proceedings involving the condemnation.

10. Before your property is condemned, you are entitled to a hearing before a court-appointed panel of three special commissioners. The special commissioners must determine the amount of compensation the condemning entity owes for condemning your property. The commissioners must also determine what compensation, if any, you are entitled to receive for any reduction in value of your remaining property.

11. If you are unsatisfied with the compensation awarded by the special commissioners, or if you question whether the condemnation of your property was proper, you have the right to a trial by a judge or jury. You may also appeal the trial court's judgment if you are unsatisfied with the result.

CONDEMNATION PROCEDURE

Eminent domain is the legal authority certain governmental and private entities have to condemn private property for public use in exchange for adequate compensation. Only entities authorized by law to do so may condemn private property. Private property can include land and certain improvements that are on that property.

Who can I hire to help me?

You can hire an appraiser or real estate professional to help you determine the value of your property as well as an attorney to negotiate with a condemning entity or to represent you during condemnation proceedings.

What qualifies as a public purpose or use?

Your property may be condemned only for a purpose or use that serves the general public. This could include building or expanding roadways, public utilities, parks, universities, and other infrastructure serving the public. Texas law does not allow condemning authorities to exercise eminent domain for tax revenue or economic development.

What is adequate compensation?

Adequate compensation typically means the market value of the property being condemned. It could also include certain damages if your remaining property's market value is diminished by the condemnation or the public purpose for which it is being condemned.

Other than adequate compensation, what other compensation could I be owed?

If you are displaced from your residence or place of business, you may be entitled to reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred while moving to a new site. However, reimbursement costs may not be available if those expenses are recoverable under another law. Also, reimbursement costs are capped at the market value of the property.

What does a condemnor have to do before condemning my property?

- Provide you a copy of this Landowner's Bill of Rights before, or at the same time as, the entity first represents that it possesses eminent domain authority. It is also required to send this Landowner's Bill of Rights to the last known address of the person listed as the property owner on the most recent tax roll at least seven days before making its final offer to acquire the property.

-- If the condemnor seeks to condemn a right-of-way easement for a pipeline or electric transmission line and is a private entity, the condemnor must also provide you a copy of the Landowner's Bill of Right's addendum.

-- The addendum describes the standard terms required in an instrument conveying property rights (such as a deed transferring title or an easement spelling out the easement rights) and what terms you can negotiate.

- Make a bona fide offer to purchase the property. This process is described more fully in chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code. A "bona fide offer" involves both an initial written offer as well as a final written offer.

-- The initial written offer must include:

--- a copy of the Landowner's Bill of Rights and addendum (if applicable);

--- either a large-font, bold-print statement saying whether the offered compensation includes damages to the remainder of your remaining property or a formal appraisal of the property that identifies any damages to the remaining property (if any);

--- the conveyance instrument (such as an easement or deed); and

--- the name and telephone number of an employee, affiliate, or legal representative of the condemning entity.

-- The final written offer must be made at least 30 days after the initial written offer and must include, if not previously provided:

--- compensation equal to or more than the amount listed in a written, certified appraisal that is provided to you;

--- copies of the conveyance instrument; and

--- the Landowner's Bill of Rights.

- Disclose any appraisal reports. When making its initial offer, the condemning entity must share its appraisal reports that relate to the property from the past 10 years. You have the right to discuss the offer with others and to either accept or reject the offer made by the condemning entity.

What if I do not accept an offer by the condemning authority?

The condemnor must give you at least 14 days to consider the final offer before filing a lawsuit to condemn your property, which begins the legal condemnation process.

How does the legal condemnation process start?

The condemnor can start the legal condemnation process by filing a lawsuit to acquire your property in the appropriate court of the county where the property is located. When filing the petition, the condemnor must send you a copy of the petition by certified mail, return receipt requested, and first class mail. It must also send a copy to your attorney if you are represented by counsel.

What does the condemnor have to include in the lawsuit filed with the court?

The lawsuit must describe the property being condemned and state the following: the public use; your name; that you and the condemning entity were unable to agree on the value of the property; that the condemning entity gave you the Landowner's Bill of Rights; and that the condemning entity made a bona fide offer to voluntarily purchase the property from you.

SPECIAL COMMISSIONERS' HEARING AND AWARD

No later than 30 days after the condemning entity files a condemnation lawsuit in court, the judge will appoint three local landowners to serve as special commissioners and two alternates. The judge will promptly give the condemnor a signed order appointing the special commissioners and the condemnor must give you, your lawyer, and other parties a copy of the order by certified mail, return receipt requested. The special commissioners will then schedule a condemnation hearing at the earliest practical time and place and to give you written notice of the hearing.

What do the special commissioners do?

The special commissioners' job is to decide what amount of money is adequate to compensate you for your property. The special commissioners will hold a hearing where you and other interested parties may introduce evidence. Then the special commissioners will determine the amount of money that is adequate compensation and file their written decision, known as an "Award," in the court with notice to all parties. Once the Award is filed, the condemning entity may take possession and start using the property being condemned, even if one or more parties object to the Award of the special commissioners.

Are there limitations on what the special commissioners can do?

Yes. The special commissioners are tasked only with determining monetary compensation for the value of the property condemned and the value of any damages to the remaining property. They do not decide whether the condemnation is necessary or if the public use is proper. Further, the special commissioners do not have the power to alter the terms of an easement, reduce the size of the land acquired, or say what access will be allowed to the property during or after the condemnation. The special commissioners also cannot determine who should receive what portion of the compensation they award. Essentially, the special commissioners are empowered only to say how much money the condemnor should pay for the land or rights being acquired.

Who can be a special commissioner?

Special commissioners must be landowners and residents in the county where the condemnation proceeding is filed, and they must take an oath to assess the amount of adequate compensation fairly, impartially, and according to the law.

What if I want to object to a special commissioner?

The judge must provide to the parties the names and contact information of the special commissioners and alternates. Each party will have up to 10 days after the date of the order appointing the special commissioners or 20 days after the date the petition was filed, whichever is later, to strike one of the three special commissioners. If a commissioner is struck, an alternate will serve as a replacement. Another party may strike a special commissioner from the resulting panel within three days after the date the initial strike was filed or the date of the initial strike deadline, whichever is later.

What will happen at the special commissioners' hearing?

The special commissioners will consider any evidence (such as appraisal reports and witness testimony) on the value of your condemned property, the damages or value added to remaining property that is not being condemned, and the condemning entity's proposed use of the property.

What are my rights at the special commissioners' hearing?

You have the right to appear or not appear at the hearing. If you do appear, you can question witnesses or offer your own evidence on the value of the property. The condemning entity must give you all existing appraisal reports regarding your property used to determine an opinion of value at least three days before the hearing. If you intend to use appraisal reports to support your claim about adequate compensation, you must provide them to the condemning entity 10 days after you receive them or three business days before the hearing, whichever is earlier.

Do I have to pay for the special commissioners' hearing?

If the special commissioners' award is less than or equal to the amount the condemning entity offered to pay before the proceedings began, then you may be financially responsible for the cost of the condemnation proceedings. But, if the award is more than the condemning entity offered to pay before the proceedings began, then the condemning entity will be responsible for the costs.

What does the condemnor need to do to take possession of the property?

Once the condemning entity either pays the amount of the award to you or deposits it into the court's registry, the entity may take possession of the property and put the property to public use. Non-governmental condemning authorities may also be required to post bonds in addition to the award amount. You have the right to withdraw funds that are deposited into the registry of the court, but when you withdraw the money, you can no longer challenge whether the eminent domain action is valid-only whether the amount of compensation is adequate.

OBJECTING TO THE SPECIAL COMMISSIONERS' AWARD

If you, the condemning entity, or any other party is unsatisfied with the amount of the award, that party can formally object. The objection must be filed in writing with the court and is due by the first Monday following the 20th day after the clerk gives notice that the commissioners have filed their award with the court. If no party timely objects to the special commissioners' award, the court will adopt the award amount as the final compensation due and issue a final judgment in absence of objection.

What happens after I object to the special commissioners' award?

If a party timely objects, the court will hear the case just like other civil lawsuits. Any party who objects to the award has the right to a trial and can elect whether to have the case decided by a judge or jury.

Who pays for trial?

If the verdict amount at trial is greater than the amount of the special commissioners' award, the condemnor may be ordered to pay costs. If the verdict at trial is equal to or less than the amount the condemnor originally offered, you may be ordered to pay costs.

Is the trial verdict the final decision?

Not necessarily. After trial any party may appeal the judgment entered by the court.

DISMISSAL OF THE CONDEMNATION ACTION

A condemnation action may be dismissed by either the condemning authority itself or on a motion by the landowner.

What happens if the condemning authority no longer wants to condemn my property?

If a condemning entity decides it no longer needs your condemned property, it can file a motion to dismiss the condemnation proceeding. If the court grants the motion to dismiss, the case is over, and you can recover reasonable and necessary fees for attorneys, appraisers, photographers, and for other expenses up to that date.

What if I do not think the condemning entity has the right to condemn my property?

You can challenge the right to condemn your property by filing a motion to dismiss the condemnation proceeding. For example, a landowner could challenge the condemning entity's claim that it seeks to condemn the property for a public use. If the court grants the landowner's motion, the court may award the landowner reasonable and necessary fees and expenses incurred to that date.

Can I get my property back if it is condemned but never put to a public use?

You may have the right to repurchase your property if your property is acquired through eminent domain and:

- the public use for which the property was acquired is canceled before that property is put to that use,

- no actual progress is made toward the public use within 10 years, or

- the property becomes unnecessary for public use within 10 years.

The repurchase price is the price you were paid at the time of the condemnation.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND ADDENDUM

For more information about the procedures, timelines, and requirements outlined in this document, see chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code. An addendum discussing the terms required for an instrument of conveyance under Property Code section 21.0114(c), and the conveyance terms that a property owner may negotiate under Property Code section 21.0114(d), is attached to this statement.

The information in this statement is intended to be a summary of the applicable portions of Texas state law as required by HB 1495, enacted by the 80th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, and HB 2730, enacted by the 87th Texas Legislature, Regular Session. This statement is not legal advice and is not a substitute for legal counsel.

TRD-202304722

Justin Gordon

General Counsel

Office of the Attorney General

Filed: December 13, 2023


Texas Water Code Settlement Notice

The State of Texas gives notice of the following proposed resolution of an environmental enforcement action under the Texas Water Code. Before the State may enter into a voluntary settlement agreement, pursuant to section 7.110 of the Texas Water Code, the State shall permit the public to comment in writing. The Attorney General will consider any written comments and may withdraw or withhold consent to the proposed agreement if the comments disclose facts or considerations indicating that consent is inappropriate, improper, inadequate, or inconsistent with the requirements of the law.

Case Title and Court: State of Texas v. Equistar Chemicals, LP; Cause No. D-1-GN-22-001749, in the 455th Judicial District Court, Travis County, Texas.

Background: Defendant Equistar Chemicals, LP ("the Defendant") operates a chemical manufacturing plant located in Pasadena, Texas. The State filed an environmental enforcement action on behalf of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality ("TCEQ") against the Defendant for violating the Texas Clean Air Act, as well as TCEQ rules and permits issued thereunder. Specifically, there were 14 emissions events and several permit and rule deviations.

Proposed Settlement: The parties propose an Agreed Final Judgment which provides an award to the State of $1,445,000 in civil penalties, and $55,000 in attorney’s fees, and post-judgment interest.

For a complete description of the proposed settlement, the Agreed Final Judgment should be reviewed in its entirety. Requests for copies of the proposed judgment and settlement, and written comments on the same, should be directed to Roel Torres, Assistant Attorney General, Office of the Attorney General of Texas, P.O. Box 12548, MC-066, Austin, Texas 78711-2548; (512) 463-2012; facsimile (512) 320-0911; email: roel.torres@oag.texas.gov. Written comments must be received within 30 days of publication of this notice to be considered.

TRD-202304697

Justin Gordon

General Counsel

Office of the Attorney General

Filed: December 12, 2023


Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner

Notice of Rate Ceilings

The Consumer Credit Commissioner of Texas has ascertained the following rate ceilings by use of the formulas and methods described in §303.003, and §303.009, Texas Finance Code.

The weekly ceiling as prescribed by §303.003 and §303.009 for the period of 12/18/23 - 12/24/23 is 18.00% for consumer1 credit.

The weekly ceiling as prescribed by §303.003 and §303.009 for the period of 12/18/23 - 12/24/23 is 18.00% for commercial2 credit.

1 Credit for personal, family, or household use.

2 Credit for business, commercial, investment, or other similar purpose.

TRD-202304711

Leslie L. Pettijohn

Commissioner

Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner

Filed: December 13, 2023


Texas Education Agency

Notice of Correction Concerning the 2024-2025 Charter School Program (Subchapter C) Grant under Request for Applications (RFA) #701-24-117

Filing Authority. The availability of grant funds under RFA #701-24-117 is authorized by Public Law 114-95, Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015, Title IV, Part C, Expanding Opportunity Through Quality Charter Schools; Texas Education Code (TEC), Chapter 12; and 19 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 100, Subchapter AA.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) published Request for Applications Concerning the 2024-2025 Charter School Program (Subchapter C) Grant in the December 8, 2023, issue of the Texas Register (48 TexReg 7187).

TEA is correcting the applicant eligibility. In the Eligible Applicants section, the criteria are amended to read, "a campus charter school authorized by the local board of trustees pursuant to TEC, Chapter 12, Subchapter C, on or before January 22, 2024, as a new charter school, or as a charter school that is designed to replicate a new charter school campus, based on the educational model of an existing high-quality charter school, and that submits all required documentation as stated in this RFA."

TRD-202304708

Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez

Director, Rulemaking

Texas Education Agency

Filed: December 13, 2023


Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Agreed Orders

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) staff is providing an opportunity for written public comment on the listed Agreed Orders (AOs) in accordance with Texas Water Code (TWC), §7.075. TWC, §7.075, requires that before the commission may approve the AOs, the commission shall allow the public an opportunity to submit written comments on the proposed AOs. TWC, §7.075, requires that notice of the proposed orders and the opportunity to comment must be published in the Texas Register no later than the 30th day before the date on which the public comment period closes, which in this case is January 26, 2024. TWC, §7.075, also requires that the commission promptly consider any written comments received and that the commission may withdraw or withhold approval of an AO if a comment discloses facts or considerations that indicate that consent is inappropriate, improper, inadequate, or inconsistent with the requirements of the statutes and rules within the commission's jurisdiction or the commission's orders and permits issued in accordance with the commission's regulatory authority. Additional notice of changes to a proposed AO is not required to be published if those changes are made in response to written comments.

A copy of each proposed AO is available for public inspection at both the commission's central office, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle, Building C, 1st Floor, Austin, Texas 78753, (512) 239-2545 and at the applicable regional office listed as follows. Written comments about an AO should be sent to the enforcement coordinator designated for each AO at the commission's central office at P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 and must be received by 5:00 p.m. on January 26, 2024. Written comments may also be sent by facsimile machine to the enforcement coordinator at (512) 239-2550. The commission's enforcement coordinators are available to discuss the AOs and/or the comment procedure at the listed phone numbers; however, TWC, §7.075, provides that comments on the AOs shall be submitted to the commission in writing.

(1) COMPANY: ACE Aggregates, LLC; DOCKET NUMBER: 2021-1142-EAQ-E; IDENTIFIER: RN109436402; LOCATION: Mico, Medina County; TYPE OF FACILITY: aggregate production operation; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §213.4(a)(1), by failing to obtain approval of an Edwards Aquifer Protection Plan prior to commencing a regulated activity over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone; PENALTY: $11,250; SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFSET AMOUNT: $4,500; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Harley Hobson, (512) 239-1337; REGIONAL OFFICE: 14250 Judson Road, San Antonio, Texas 78233-4480, (210) 492-3096.

(2) COMPANY: Alanreed Travel Center LLC; DOCKET NUMBER: 2023-1066-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: RN102480282; LOCATION: Alanreed, Gray County; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.49(c)(4)(C) and TWC, §26.3475(d), by failing to test the corrosion protection system for operability and adequacy of protection at a frequency of at least once every three years; and 30 TAC §334.50(b)(1)(A) and (2) and TWC, §26.3475(a) and (c)(1), by failing to monitor the underground storage tanks (USTs) in a manner which will detect a release at a frequency of at least once every 30 days, and failing to provide release detection for the pressurized piping associated with the UST system; PENALTY: $7,374; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Danielle Fishbeck, (512) 239-5083; REGIONAL OFFICE: 3918 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79109-4933, (806) 353-9251.

(3) COMPANY: City of Childress; DOCKET NUMBER: 2022-1577-MSW-E; IDENTIFIER: RN102328101; LOCATION: Childress, Childress County; TYPE OF FACILITY: city landfill; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §330.125(b)(2) and Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Permit Number 2263, Section III.L- Facility Design, Construction, and Operation, by failing to record and retain copies of all records concerning inspections, training procedures, and notification procedures relating to excluding the receipt of prohibited waste; 30 TAC §330.137, by failing to conspicuously display at all entrances through which wastes are received signage that states an emergency 24-hour contact phone number that will reach an individual with the authority to obligate the facility at all times that the facility is closed; and 30 TAC §330.139 and MSW Permit Number 2263, Section VII.J- Standard Permit Conditions, by failing to collect and properly manage windblown solid waste; PENALTY: $12,688; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Eresha DeSilva, (512) 239-5084; REGIONAL OFFICE: 3918 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79109-4933, (806) 353-9251.

(4) COMPANY: City of Lufkin; DOCKET NUMBER: 2020-1536-MWD-E; IDENTIFIER: RN101609964; LOCATION: Lufkin, Angelina County; TYPE OF FACILITY: wastewater treatment facility; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §305.125(1) and (5), TWC, §26.121(a)(1), and Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Number WQ0010214001, Permit Conditions Number 2.g and Operational Requirements Number 1, by failing to properly operate and maintain the systems of collection which resulted in an unauthorized discharge of municipal waste into or adjacent to any water in the state; PENALTY: $6,000; SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFSET AMOUNT: $6,000; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Mark Gamble, (512) 239-2587; REGIONAL OFFICE: 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1830, (409) 898-3838.

(5) COMPANY: City of Rising Star; DOCKET NUMBER: 2021-1534-MWD-E; IDENTIFIER: RN103138137; LOCATION: Rising Star, Eastland County; TYPE OF FACILITY: wastewater treatment facility; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §305.125(1), TWC, §26.121(a)(1), and Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Number WQ0014515001, Effluent Limitations and Monitoring Requirements Numbers 1 and 6, by failing to comply with permitted effluent limitations; PENALTY: $21,000; SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFSET AMOUNT: $16,800; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Kolby Farren, (512) 755-6327; REGIONAL OFFICE: 1977 Industrial Boulevard, Abilene, Texas 79602-7833, (325) 698-9674.

(6) COMPANY: CONTRACTOR'S SUPPLIES, INCORPORATED; DOCKET NUMBER: 2022-0461-WQ-E; IDENTIFIER: RN100250034; LOCATION: Marshall, Harrison County; TYPE OF FACILITY: concrete batch plant; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §305.125(1), TWC, §26.121(a)(1), and Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Number TXG110319, Part III, Section A.1, by failing to comply with permitted effluent limitations; PENALTY: $8,250; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Mark Gamble, (512) 239-2587; REGIONAL OFFICE: 2916 Teague Drive, Tyler, Texas 75701-3734, (903) 535-5100.

(7) COMPANY: Covia Holdings LLC; DOCKET NUMBER: 2022-1284-WQ-E; IDENTIFIER: RN109877159; LOCATION: Kermit, Winkler County; TYPE OF FACILITY: aggregate production operation (APO); RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §342.25, by failing to renew the APO registration annually as regulated activities continued; PENALTY: $15,000; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Monica Larina, (361) 881-6965; REGIONAL OFFICE: 9900 West IH-20, Suite 100, Midland, Texas 79706, (432) 570-1359.

(8) COMPANY: Heritage Acres, LLC dba EJ Water and David Michael Chandler dba EJ Water; DOCKET NUMBER: 2021-1526-PWS-E; IDENTIFIER: RN101439875; LOCATION: Gladewate, Gregg County; TYPE OF FACILITY: public water supply; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §290.41(c)(1)(A), by failing to locate the facility's well at least 150 feet away from septic tank perforated drainfields, areas irrigated by low dosage, low angle spray on-site sewage facilities, absorption beds, evapotranspiration beds, improperly constructed water wells, or underground petroleum and chemical storage tanks or liquid transmission pipelines; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(J), by failing to provide the wells with a concrete sealing block that extends a minimum of three feet from the exterior well casing in all directions, with a minimum thickness of six inches and sloped to drain away at not less than 0.25 inches per foot; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(K), by failing to seal the wellhead by a gasket or sealing compound; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(L), by failing to provide a well blow-off line that terminates in a downward direction and at a point which will not be submerged by flood waters; 30 TAC §290.42(e)(3)(D), by failing to provide facilities for determining the amount of disinfectant used daily and the amount of disinfectant remaining for use; 30 TAC §290.42(e)(4)(A), by failing to provide a full-face self-contained breathing apparatus or supplied air respirator that meets Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards that is readily accessible outside the chlorinator room and immediately available to the operator in the event of an emergency; 30 TAC §290.42(e)(4)(C), by failing to provide adequate ventilation which includes high level and floor level screened vents for all enclosures in which chlorine gas is being stored or fed; 30 TAC §290.42(j), by failing to use an approved chemical or media for the treatment of potable water that conforms to the American National Standards Institute/National Sanitation Foundation Standard 60 for Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(C)(iii) and Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC), §341.0315(c), by failing to provide two or more service pumps having a total capacity of 2.0 gallons per minute per connection at each pump station or pressure plane; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(C)(iv) and THSC, §341.0315(c), by failing to provide an elevated storage capacity of 100 gallons per connection or a pressure tank capacity of 20 gallons per connection; 30 TAC §290.46(d)(2)(A) and §290.110(b)(4) and THSC, §341.0315(c), by failing to maintain a minimum disinfectant residual of 0.2 milligrams per liter of free chlorine throughout the distribution system at all times; 30 TAC §290.46(f)(2) and (3)(A)(i)(III), (vi) and (vii), by failing to maintain water works operation and maintenance records and make them readily available for review by the Executive Director upon request; 30 TAC §290.46(m), by failing to initiate maintenance and housekeeping practices to ensure the good working condition and general appearance of the system's facilities and equipment; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(1)(B), by failing to conduct an inspection of the interior of the facility's pressure tank with an inspection port at least once every five years; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(4), by failing to maintain all water treatment units, storage and pressure maintenance facilities, distribution system lines, and related appurtenances in a watertight condition; 30 TAC §290.46(n)(1), by failing to maintain at the public water system accurate and up-to-date detailed as-built plans or record drawings and specifications for each treatment plant, pump station, and storage tank until the facility is decommissioned; 30 TAC §290.46(n)(2), by failing to make available an accurate and up-to-date map of the distribution system so that valves and mains can be easily located during emergencies; 30 TAC §290.46(s)(1), by failing to calibrate the facility's well meters at least once every three years; 30 TAC §290.110(c)(4)(A), by failing to monitor the disinfectant residual at representative locations throughout the distribution system at least once every seven days; and 30 TAC §290.121(a) and (b), by failing to maintain an up-to-date chemical and microbiological monitoring plan that identifies all sampling locations, describes the sampling frequency, and specifies the analytical procedures and laboratories that the public water system will use to comply with the monitoring requirements; PENALTY: $11,024; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Epifanio Villarreal, (361) 881-6991; REGIONAL OFFICE: 2916 Teague Drive, Tyler, Texas 75701-3734, (903) 535-5100.

(9) COMPANY: HURTADO CONSTRUCTION COMPANY; DOCKET NUMBER: 2023-0992-AIR-E; IDENTIFIER: RN111122339; LOCATION: Fulshear, Fort Bend County; TYPE OF FACILITY: construction and land development site; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §101.4 and Texas Health and Safety Code, §382.085(a) and (b), by failing to prevent nuisance dust conditions; PENALTY: $3,937; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Karyn Olschesky, (817) 588-5896; REGIONAL OFFICE: 5425 Polk Street, Suite H, Houston, Texas 77023-1452, (713) 767-3500.

(10) COMPANY: Pilot Thomas Logistics LLC; DOCKET NUMBER: 2022-1304-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: RN102230844; LOCATION: Sundown, Hockley County; TYPE OF FACILITY: former bulk plant with retail sales of fuel; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b) and §334.54(b)(1) and (2), by failing to keep all vent lines open and functioning, and failing to maintain all piping, pumps, manways, tank access points, and ancillary equipment in a capped, plugged, locked, and/or otherwise secured manner to prevent access, tampering, or vandalism by unauthorized persons, and, also failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance for taking corrective action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of petroleum underground storage tanks; PENALTY: $3,750; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Stephanie McCurley, (512) 239-2607; REGIONAL OFFICE: 5012 50th Street, Suite 100, Lubbock, Texas 79414-3426, (806) 796-7092.

TRD-202304694

Gitanjali Yadav

Deputy Director, Litigation

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 12, 2023


Combined Notice of Public Meeting and Notice of Application and Preliminary Decision for TPDES Permit for Municipal Wastewater New Permit No. WQ0016274001

APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. Moore Farm Water Control and Improvement District No. 1, 14755 Preston Road, Suite 600, Dallas, Texas 75254, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for new Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0016274001, to authorize the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at an annual average flow not to exceed 1,600,000 gallons per day. TCEQ received this application on December 14, 2022.

The facility will be located approximately 0.35 miles southwest of the intersection of County Road 243 and County Road 245, in Kaufman County, Texas 75160. The treated effluent will be discharged to Little High Point Creek, thence to High Point Creek, thence Big Brushy Creek, thence to Kings Creek, thence to Cedar Creek Reservoir in Segment No. 0818 of the Trinity River Basin. The unclassified receiving water uses are limited aquatic life use for Little High Point Creek, and high aquatic life use for High Point Creek and Big Brushy Creek. The designated uses for Segment No. 0818 are primary contact recreation, public water supply, and high aquatic life use. In accordance with 30 Texas Administrative Code §307.5 and the TCEQ Procedures to Implement the Texas Surface Water Quality Standards (June 2010), an antidegradation review of the receiving waters was performed. A Tier 1 antidegradation review has preliminarily determined that existing water quality uses will not be impaired by this permit action. Numerical and narrative criteria to protect existing uses will be maintained. A Tier 2 review has preliminarily determined that no significant degradation of water quality is expected in High Point Creek or Big Brushy Creek, which have been identified as having high aquatic life uses. Existing uses will be maintained and protected. The preliminary determination can be reexamined and may be modified if new information is received. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy and is not part of the application or notice. For the exact location, refer to the application.

https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-96.309166,32.804444&level=18

The TCEQ Executive Director has completed the technical review of the application and prepared a draft permit. The draft permit, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The Executive Director has made a preliminary decision that this permit, if issued, meets all statutory and regulatory requirements. The permit application, Executive Director's preliminary decision, and draft permit are available for viewing and copying at Riter C. Hulsey Public Library, 301 North Rockwall Avenue, Terrell, Texas.

ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-public-notices. El aviso de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-public-notices.

PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public comments or request a public meeting about this application. The TCEQ will hold a public meeting on this application because it was requested by a local legislator.

The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or to ask questions about the application. A public meeting will be held and will consist of two parts, an Informal Discussion Period and a Formal Comment Period. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing under the Administrative Procedure Act. During the Informal Discussion Period, the public will be encouraged to ask questions of the applicant and TCEQ staff concerning the permit application. The comments and questions submitted orally during the Informal Discussion Period will not be considered before a decision is reached on the permit application and no formal response will be made. Responses will be provided orally during the Informal Discussion Period. During the Formal Comment Period on the permit application, members of the public may state their formal comments orally into the official record. A written response to all timely, relevant and material, or significant comments will be prepared by the Executive Director. All formal comments will be considered before a decision is reached on the permit application. A copy of the written response will be sent to each person who submits a formal comment or who requested to be on the mailing list for this permit application and provides a mailing address. Only relevant and material issues raised during the Formal Comment Period can be considered if a contested case hearing is granted on this permit application.

The Public Meeting is to be held:

Thursday, January 25, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

Fairfield Inn & Suites

351 Market Center Drive

Terrell, Texas 75160

Persons with disabilities who need special accommodations at the meeting should call the Office of the Chief Clerk at (512) 239-3300 or (800) RELAY-TX (TDD) at least one week prior to the meeting.

OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material or significant public comments. Unless the application is directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a contested case hearing or reconsideration of the Executive Director's decision. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in a state district court.

TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period; and the statement "[I/we] request a contested case hearing." If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or association, the request must designate the group's representative for receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the group's purpose.

Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting.

The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted during the comment period.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. The Executive Director may issue final approval of the application unless a timely contested case hearing request or request for reconsideration is filed. If a timely hearing request or request for reconsideration is filed, the Executive Director will not issue final approval of the permit and will forward the application and request to the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting.

MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

All written public comments and public meeting requests must be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 or electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/comment within 30 days from the date of newspaper publication of this notice or by the date of the public meeting, whichever is later.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.

AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/comment, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Any personal information you submit to the TCEQ will become part of the agency's record; this includes email addresses. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program, Toll Free, at (800) 687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en español, puede llamar al (800) 687-4040.

Further information may also be obtained from Moore Farm Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 at the address stated above or by calling Mr. Jonathan Nguyen, Quiddity Engineering, at (512) 685-5156.

Issuance Date: December 12, 2023

TRD-202304716

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Enforcement Order

An agreed order was adopted regarding PAPCO, INC., Docket No. 2022‑1370‑AIR‑E on December 12, 2023 assessing $2,625 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Jennifer Peltier, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

TRD-202304721

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Enforcement Orders

A default order was adopted regarding SRC Water Supply Inc., Docket No. 2020‑1072‑PWS‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $1,388 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cynthia Sirois, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Energy Transfer GC NGL Fractionators LLC f/k/a Lone Star NGL Fractionators LLC, Docket No. 2021‑0232‑AIR‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $39,206 in administrative penalties with $7,841 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Mackenzie Mehlmann, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

A default order was adopted regarding SRC Water Supply Inc, Docket No. 2021‑0327‑PWS‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $250 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cynthia Sirois, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding SRC Water Supply Inc, Docket No. 2021‑0331‑PWS‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $300 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cynthia Sirois, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

A default order was adopted regarding Rampage Cattle Company, LLC, Docket No. 2021‑0516‑MSW‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $10,000 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Barrett Hollingsworth, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Town of Woodsboro, Docket No. 2021‑0677‑MWD‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $30,925 in administrative penalties with $6,185 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Kolby Farren, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding OXY USA WTP LP, Docket No. 2021‑0962‑AIR‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $234,000 in administrative penalties with $46,800 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Mackenzie Mehlmann, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

A default order was adopted regarding Gerardo Castaneda, Docket No. 2021‑0983‑MSW‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $6,203 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Casey Kurnath, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

A default order was adopted regarding SRC Water Supply Inc., Docket No. 2021‑1047‑PWS‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $5,400 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cynthia Sirois, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Monument Chemical Port Arthur, LLC, Docket No. 2021‑1157‑MWD‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $23,400 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Taylor Williamson, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding City of Athens, Docket No. 2021‑1168‑MWD‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $18,750 in administrative penalties with $3,750 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Samantha Salas, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Hernandez Rock, Inc., Docket No. 2021‑1349‑WQ‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $15,563 in administrative penalties with $3,112 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Taylor Williamson, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding City of Alto, Docket No. 2021‑1471‑MWD‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $15,000 in administrative penalties with $3,000 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cheryl Thompson, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Mary Janet Hendrix Duncan, Docket No. 2022‑0227‑MLM‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $7,875 in administrative penalties with $1,575 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Shane Glantz, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding RDS Opportunity Fund LLC dba Golden Triangle Business Park, Docket No. 2022‑0305‑PWS‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $15,376 in administrative penalties with $3,075 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Ronica Rodriguez, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Buckeye Texas Processing LLC, Docket No. 2022‑0398‑MLM‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $169,405 in administrative penalties with $33,881 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Harley Hobson, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding City of Baird, Docket No. 2022‑0646‑MWD‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $9,375 in administrative penalties. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Casey Kurnath, Staff Attorney at (512) 239‑3400, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding City of Montgomery, Docket No. 2022‑0935‑MWD‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $10,125 in administrative penalties with $2,025 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Monica Larina, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

An agreed order was adopted regarding Lyondell Chemical Company, Docket No. 2023‑0596‑AIR‑E on December 13, 2023, assessing $32,525 in administrative penalties with $6,505 deferred. Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Johnnie Wu, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239‑2545, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087.

TRD-202304720

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Notice of Correction to Agreed Order Number 6

In the July 21, 2023, issue of the Texas Register (48 TexReg 4010), the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (commission) published notice of Agreed Orders, specifically Item Number 6, for City of Springtown; Docket Number 2022-0233-PWS-E. The error is as submitted by the commission.

The reference to the Supplemental Environmental Project Offset Amount should be added to the publication to read: "$1,392."

For questions concerning these errors, please contact Michael Parrish at (512) 239-2548.

TRD-202304695

Gitanjali Yadav

Deputy Director, Litigation

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 12, 2023


Notice of District Petition

Notice issued December 8, 2023

TCEQ Internal Control No. D-09142023-018; Maple View Development LLC, a Texas limited liability company, (Petitioner) filed a petition for creation of Brazoria County Municipal Utility District No. 88 (District) with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The petition was filed pursuant to Article XVI, §59 of the Constitution of the State of Texas; Chapters 49 and 54 of the Texas Water Code; 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 293; and the procedural rules of the TCEQ. The petition states that: (1) the Petitioner holds title to a majority in value of the land to be included in the proposed District; (2) there is one lienholder, Plains State Bank, a Texas state bank, on the property to be included in the proposed District and information provided indicates that the lienholder consents to the creation of the proposed District); (3) the proposed District will contain approximately 238.466 acres located within Brazoria County, Texas; and (4) the land within the proposed District is within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the City of Alvin and within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the Village of Bonney. By Ordinance No. 22-DDD, passed and approved on December 15, 2022, the City of Alvin, Texas, gave its consent to the creation of the proposed District, pursuant to Texas Water Code §54.016. By Ordinance No. 6-2022, passed and approved on November 15, 2022, the Village of Bonney, Texas, gave its consent to the creation of the proposed District, pursuant to Texas Water Code §54.016.

The petition further states that the proposed District will: (1) purchase, design, construct, acquire, maintain, own, operate, repair, improve, and extend a waterworks and sanitary sewer system for residential and commercial purposes; (2) construct, acquire, improve, extend, maintain, and operate works, improvements, facilities, plants, equipment, and appliances helpful or necessary to provide more adequate drainage for the proposed District; (3) control, abate, and amend local storm waters or other harmful excesses of water; and (4) purchase, construct, acquire, maintain, own, operate, repair, improve, and extend such additional facilities, including roads, parks and recreation facilities, systems, plants, and enterprises as shall be consonant with all of the purposes for which the proposed District is created. According to the petition, a preliminary investigation has been made to determine the cost of the project, and it is estimated by the Petitioner that the cost of said project will be approximately $50,920,000 ($28,595,000 for water, wastewater, and drainage, $8,725,000 for roads, and $13,600,000 for recreation).

INFORMATION SECTION

To view the complete issued notice, view the notice on our web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/agency/cc/pub_notice.html or call the Office of the Chief Clerk at (512) 239-3300 to obtain a copy of the complete notice. When searching the web site, type in the issued date range shown at the top of this document to obtain search results.

The TCEQ may grant a contested case hearing on the petition if a written hearing request is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of the notice. To request a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number, and fax number, if any; (2) the name of the Petitioner and the TCEQ Internal Control Number; (3) the statement "I/we request a contested case hearing"; (4) a brief description of how you would be affected by the petition in a way not common to the general public; and (5) the location of your property relative to the proposed District's boundaries. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the petition. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address provided in the information section below. The Executive Director may approve the petition unless a written request for a contested case hearing is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of this notice. If a hearing request is filed, the Executive Director will not approve the petition and will forward the petition and hearing request to the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. If a contested case hearing is held, it will be a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court. Written hearing requests should be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, TCEQ, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. For information concerning the hearing process, please contact the Public Interest Counsel, MC 103, at the same address. For additional information, individual members of the general public may contact the Districts Review Team, at (512) 239-4691. Si desea información en español, puede llamar al (512) 239-0200. General information regarding TCEQ can be found at our web site at www.tceq.texas.gov.

TRD-202304717

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Notice of District Petition

Notice issued December 8, 2023

TCEQ Internal Control No. D-07072023-009; Howe Land Partners, LLC, a Texas limited liability company, and Horizon Capital Partners, LLC, a Texas limited liability company (collectively, Petitioners) filed a petition for the creation of Noble Ridge Municipal Utility District of Grayson County (District) with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The petition was filed pursuant to Article XVI, § 59 of the Constitution of the State of Texas; Chapters 49 and 54 of the Texas Water Code; 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 293; and the procedural rules of the TCEQ. The petition states that: (1) the Petitioners hold title to a majority of the land in the proposed District; (2) there are no lienholders on the land to be included in the proposed District; (3) the proposed District will contain approximately 142.936 acres of land, more or less, located within Grayson County, Texas; (4) all of the land to be included within the proposed District is located within the corporate limits of the City of Howe (City); and (5) the City has consented to creation of and inclusion of the land within the District by resolution (Resolution No. 22022-0010) adopted on December 13, 2022. The petition further states that the proposed District will: (1) construct, maintain, and operate a waterworks system, including the purchase and sale of water, for domestic and commercial purposes; (2) construct, maintain, and operate a sanitary sewer collection and disposal system, for domestic and commercial purposes; (3) construct, install, maintain, purchase, and operate drainage and roadway facilities and improvements; and (4) construct, install, maintain, purchase, and operate such additional facilities, systems, plants, and enterprises as shall be consistent with the purposes for which the District is created. It further states that the planned residential development of the area and its present and future inhabitants will benefit from the above-referenced work, which will promote the purity and sanitary condition of the State’s waters and the public health and welfare of the community. According to the petition, a preliminary investigation has been made to determine the cost of the project, and it is estimated by the Petitioner, from the information available at this time, that the cost of said project will be approximately $18,100,000 ($13,000,000 for water, wastewater, and drainage facilities and $5,100,000 for road facilities).

INFORMATION SECTION

To view the complete issued notice, view the notice on our web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/agency/cc/pub_notice.html or call the Office of the Chief Clerk at (512) 239-3300 to obtain a copy of the complete notice. When searching the web site, type in the issued date range shown at the top of this document to obtain search results.

The TCEQ may grant a contested case hearing on the petition if a written hearing request is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of the notice. To request a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number, and fax number, if any; (2) the name of the Petitioner and the TCEQ Internal Control Number; (3) the statement "I/we request a contested case hearing"; (4) a brief description of how you would be affected by the petition in a way not common to the general public; and (5) the location of your property relative to the proposed District's boundaries. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the petition. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address provided in the information section below. The Executive Director may approve the petition unless a written request for a contested case hearing is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of this notice. If a hearing request is filed, the Executive Director will not approve the petition and will forward the petition and hearing request to the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. If a contested case hearing is held, it will be a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court. Written hearing requests should be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, TCEQ, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. For information concerning the hearing process, please contact the Public Interest Counsel, MC 103, at the same address. For additional information, individual members of the general public may contact the Districts Review Team, at (512) 239-4691. Si desea información en español, puede llamar al (512) 239-0200. General information regarding TCEQ can be found at our web site at www.tceq.texas.gov.

TRD-202304719

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Notice of Opportunity to Comment on Default Orders of Administrative Enforcement Actions

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) staff is providing an opportunity for written public comment on the listed Default Orders (DOs). The commission staff proposes a DO when the staff has sent the Executive Director's Preliminary Report and Petition (EDPRP) to an entity outlining the alleged violations; the proposed penalty; the proposed technical requirements necessary to bring the entity back into compliance; and the entity fails to request a hearing on the matter within 20 days of its receipt of the EDPRP or requests a hearing and fails to participate at the hearing. Similar to the procedure followed with respect to Agreed Orders entered into by the executive director of the commission, in accordance with Texas Water Code (TWC), §7.075, this notice of the proposed order and the opportunity to comment is published in the Texas Register no later than the 30th day before the date on which the public comment period closes, which in this case is January 26, 2024. The commission will consider any written comments received, and the commission may withdraw or withhold approval of a DO if a comment discloses facts or considerations that indicate that consent to the proposed DO is inappropriate, improper, inadequate, or inconsistent with the requirements of the statutes and rules within the commission's jurisdiction, or the commission's orders and permits issued in accordance with the commission's regulatory authority. Additional notice of changes to a proposed DO is not required to be published if those changes are made in response to written comments.

A copy of each proposed DO is available for public inspection at both the commission's central office, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle, Building A, 3rd Floor, Austin, Texas 78753, (512) 239‑3400 and at the applicable regional office listed as follows. Written comments about the DO should be sent to the attorney designated for the DO at the commission's central office at P.O. Box 13087, MC 175, Austin, Texas 78711‑3087 and must be received by 5:00 p.m. on January 26, 2024. The commission's attorneys are available to discuss the DOs and/or the comment procedure at the listed phone numbers; however, TWC, §7.075, provides that comments on the DO shall be submitted to the commission in writing.

(1) COMPANY: BUSHWACKERS LAND SERVICES LLC.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2020-1422-MLM-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: RN110934619 and RN108075797; LOCATION: two miles south of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 188 and Farm-to-Market Road 1069 near Aransas Pass, Aransas County; TYPE OF FACILITY: aggregate production operation and a portable rock crusher; RULES VIOLATED: Texas Health and Safety Code, §382.0518(a) and §382.085(b) and 30 TAC §116.110(a), by failing to obtain authorization prior to constructing or modifying a source of air contaminants; and TWC, §26.121, 30 TAC §281.25(a)(4), and 40 Code of Federal Regulations §122.26(c), by failing to obtain authorization to discharge stormwater associated with industrial activities; PENALTY: $5,000; STAFF ATTORNEY: Benjamin Pence, Litigation, MC 175, (512) 239-2157; REGIONAL OFFICE: Corpus Christi Regional Office, 500 North Shoreline Boulevard, Suite 500, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401-0318, (361) 881-6900.

(2) COMPANY: Carlos Diaz; DOCKET NUMBER: 2022-0858-PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: RN102234978; LOCATION: 1301 Santa Maria Avenue, Laredo, Webb County; TYPE OF FACILITY: underground storage tank (UST) system; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.602(a), by failing to designate, train, and certify at least one named individual for each class of operator - Class A, B, and C - for the facility; 30 TAC §334.47(a)(2), by failing to permanently remove from service, no later than 60 days after the prescribed upgrade implementation date, a UST system for which any applicable component of the system is not brought into timely compliance with the upgrade requirements; 30 TAC §334.54(b)(2), by failing to maintain all piping, pumps, manway, tank access points, and ancillary equipment in a capped, plugged, locked, and/or otherwise secured manner; and 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance for taking corrective action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of petroleum USTs; PENALTY: $5,250; STAFF ATTORNEY: Erandi Ratnayake, Litigation, MC 175, (512) 239-6515; REGIONAL OFFICE: Laredo Regional Office, 707 East Calton Road, Suite 304, Laredo, Texas 78041-3887, (956) 791-6611.

TRD-202304698

Gitanjali Yadav

Deputy Director, Litigation

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 12, 2023


Notice of Public Hearing on Assessment of Administrative Penalties and Requiring Certain Actions of TJP Enterprises, LLC DBA All American Tire Recyclers SOAH Docket No. 582-24-05309 TCEQ Docket No. 2020-1465-MSW-E

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or the Commission) has referred this matter to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). An Administrative Law Judge with the State Office of Administrative Hearings will conduct a public hearing via Zoom videoconference at:

10:00 a.m. - January 11, 2024

To join the Zoom meeting via computer or smart device:

https://soah-texas.zoomgov.com

Meeting ID: 161 984 0712

Password: TCEQDC1

or

To join the Zoom meeting via telephone dial:

+1 (669) 254-5252

Meeting ID: 161 984 0712

Password: 5247869

The purpose of the hearing will be to consider the Executive Director's Preliminary Report and Petition mailed November 4, 2021 concerning assessing administrative penalties against and requiring certain actions of TJP Enterprises, LLC dba All American Tire Recyclers, for violations in Tarrant County, Texas, of: Tex. Health & Safety Code § 361.112(a), 30 Texas Administrative Code §328.60(a), §328.63(b), and TCEQ Agreed Order Docket No. 2019-0681-MSW-E, Ordering Provision Nos. 2.a, 2.b, and 2.c.

The hearing will allow TJP Enterprises, LLC dba All American Tire Recyclers, the Executive Director, and the Commission's Public Interest Counsel to present evidence on whether a violation has occurred, whether an administrative penalty should be assessed, and the amount of such penalty, if any. The first convened session of the hearing will be to establish jurisdiction, afford TJP Enterprises, LLC dba All American Tire Recyclers, the Executive Director of the Commission, and the Commission's Public Interest Counsel an opportunity to negotiate and to establish a discovery and procedural schedule for an evidentiary hearing. Unless agreed to by all parties in attendance at the preliminary hearing, an evidentiary hearing will not be held on the date of this preliminary hearing. Upon failure of TJP Enterprises, LLC dba All American Tire Recyclers to appear at the preliminary hearing or evidentiary hearing, the factual allegations in the notice will be deemed admitted as true, and the relief sought in the notice of hearing may be granted by default. The specific allegations included in the notice are those set forth in the Executive Director's Preliminary Report and Petition, attached hereto and incorporated herein for all purposes. TJP Enterprises, LLC dba All American Tire Recyclers, the Executive Director of the Commission, and the Commission's Public Interest Counsel are the only designated parties to this proceeding.

Legal Authority: Tex. Water Code § 7.054 and ch. 7, Tex. Health & Safety Code ch. 361, and 30 Texas Administrative Code chs. 70 and 328; Tex. Water Code § 7.058, and the Rules of Procedure of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the State Office of Administrative Hearings, including 30 Texas Administrative Code §70.108 and §70.109 and ch. 80, and 1 Texas Administrative Code ch. 155.

Further information regarding this hearing may be obtained by contacting Barrett Hollingsworth, Staff Attorney, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Litigation Division, Mail Code 175, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087, telephone (512) 239-3400. Information concerning your participation in this hearing may be obtained by contacting Sheldon Wayne, Staff Attorney, Office of Public Interest Counsel, Mail Code 103, at the same P.O. Box address given above, or by telephone at (512) 239-6363.

Any document filed prior to the hearing must be filed with TCEQ's Office of the Chief Clerk and SOAH. Documents filed with the Office of the Chief Clerk may be filed electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/efilings or sent to the following address: TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk, Mail Code 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Documents filed with SOAH may be filed via fax at (512) 322-2061 or sent to the following address: SOAH, 300 West 15th Street, Suite 504, Austin, Texas 78701. When contacting the Commission or SOAH regarding this matter, reference the SOAH docket number given at the top of this notice.

In accordance with 1 Texas Administrative Code §155.401(a), Notice of Hearing, "Parties that are not represented by an attorney may obtain information regarding contested case hearings on the public website of the State Office of Administrative Hearings at www.soah.texas.gov, or in printed format upon request to SOAH."

Persons who need special accommodations at the hearing should call the SOAH Docketing Department at (512) 475-3445, at least one week before the hearing.

Issued: December 6, 2023

TRD-202304712

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Notice of Public Hearing on Assessment of Administrative Penalties and Requiring Certain Actions of Wing Dingers Texas LLC. and Christopher R. Fischer SOAH Docket No. 582-24-06200 TCEQ Docket No. 2021-0200-PWS-E

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or the Commission) has referred this matter to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). An Administrative Law Judge with the State Office of Administrative Hearings will conduct a public hearing at:

10:00 a.m. - January 11, 2024

To join the Zoom meeting via computer or smart device:

https://soah-texas.zoomgov.com

Meeting ID: 161 984 0712

Password: TCEQDC1

or

To join the Zoom meeting via telephone dial:

+1 (669) 254-5252

Meeting ID: 161 984 0712

Password: 5247869

The purpose of the hearing will be to consider the Executive Director's Preliminary Report and Petition mailed October 21, 2022 concerning assessing administrative penalties against and requiring certain actions of Wing Dingers Texas LLC. and Christopher R. Fischer, for violations in Wood County, Texas, of: Tex. Health & Safety Code § 341.035(a) and 30 Texas Administrative Code §290.39(e)(1) and (h)(1).

The hearing will allow Wing Dingers Texas LLC. and Christopher R. Fischer, the Executive Director, and the Commission's Public Interest Counsel to present evidence on whether a violation has occurred, whether an administrative penalty should be assessed, and the amount of such penalty, if any. The first convened session of the hearing will be to establish jurisdiction, afford Wing Dingers Texas LLC. and Christopher R. Fischer, the Executive Director of the Commission, and the Commission's Public Interest Counsel an opportunity to negotiate and to establish a discovery and procedural schedule for an evidentiary hearing. Unless agreed to by all parties in attendance at the preliminary hearing, an evidentiary hearing will not be held on the date of this preliminary hearing. Upon failure of Wing Dingers Texas LLC. and Christopher R. Fischer to appear at the preliminary hearing or evidentiary hearing, the factual allegations in the notice will be deemed admitted as true, and the relief sought in the notice of hearing may be granted by default. The specific allegations included in the notice are those set forth in the Executive Director's Preliminary Report and Petition, attached hereto and incorporated herein for all purposes. Wing Dingers Texas LLC. and Christopher R. Fischer, the Executive Director of the Commission, and the Commission's Public Interest Counsel are the only designated parties to this proceeding.

Legal Authority: Tex. Health & Safety Code ch. 341 and 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapters 70 and 290; Tex. Health & Safety Code § 341.049, and the Rules of Procedure of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the State Office of Administrative Hearings, including 30 Texas Administrative Code §70.108 and §70.109 and Chapter 80, and 1 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 155.

Further information regarding this hearing may be obtained by contacting Clayton Smith, Staff Attorney, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Litigation Division, Mail Code 175, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087, telephone (512) 239-3400. Information concerning your participation in this hearing may be obtained by contacting Sheldon Wayne, Staff Attorney, Office of Public Interest Counsel, Mail Code 103, at the same P.O. Box address given above, or by telephone at (512) 239-6363.

Any document filed prior to the hearing must be filed with TCEQ's Office of the Chief Clerk and SOAH. Documents filed with the Office of the Chief Clerk may be filed electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/efilings or sent to the following address: TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk, Mail Code 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Documents filed with SOAH may be filed via fax at (512) 322-2061 or sent to the following address: SOAH, 300 West 15th Street, Suite 504, Austin, Texas 78701. When contacting the Commission or SOAH regarding this matter, reference the SOAH docket number given at the top of this notice.

In accordance with 1 Texas Administrative Code §155.401(a), Notice of Hearing, "Parties that are not represented by an attorney may obtain information regarding contested case hearings on the public website of the State Office of Administrative Hearings at www.soah.texas.gov, or in printed format upon request to SOAH."

Persons who need special accommodations at the hearing should call the SOAH Docketing Department at (512) 475-3445, at least one week before the hearing.

Issued: December 6, 2023

TRD-202304713

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Notice of Public Meeting for TPDES Permit for Municipal Wastewater Amendment Permit No. WQ0011378001

APPLICATION. Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, 933 East Court Street, Seguin, Texas 78155, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for a major amendment to Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0011378001 to authorize an increase in the discharge of treated domestic wastewater from a daily average flow not to exceed 950,000 gallons per day to an annual average not to exceed 2,950,000 gallons per day. TCEQ received this application on August 5, 2019.

The facility is located at 174 Century Ranch Road, New Braunfels, in Guadalupe County, Texas 78130. The treated effluent is discharged via Outfalls 001 and 002 directly to the Guadalupe River Below Comal River in Segment No. 1804 of the Guadalupe River Basin. The designated uses for Segment No. 1804 are primary contact recreation, public water supply, aquifer protection, and high aquatic life use. In accordance with 30 Texas Administrative Code Section 307.5 and the and the TCEQ's Procedures to Implement the Texas Surface Water Quality Standards (June 2010), an antidegradation review of the receiving waters was performed. A Tier 1 antidegradation review has preliminarily determined that existing water quality uses will not be impaired by this permit action. Numerical and narrative criteria to protect existing uses will be maintained. A Tier 2 review has preliminarily determined that no significant degradation of water quality is expected in the Guadalupe River Below Comal River which has been identified as having high aquatic life use. Existing uses will be maintained and protected. The preliminary determination can be reexamined and may be modified if new information is received. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy and is not part of the application or notice. For the exact location, refer to the application.

https://tceq.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=db5bac44afbc468bbddd360f8168250f&marker=-98.073888%2C29.6625&level=12

The TCEQ Executive Director has completed the technical review of the application and prepared a draft permit. The draft permit, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The Executive Director has made a preliminary decision that this permit, if issued, meets all statutory and regulatory requirements.

PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. A public meeting will be held and will consist of two parts, an Informal Discussion Period and a Formal Comment Period. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing under the Administrative Procedure Act. During the Informal Discussion Period, the public will be encouraged to ask questions of the applicant and TCEQ staff concerning the permit application. The comments and questions submitted orally during the Informal Discussion Period will not be considered before a decision is reached on the permit application and no formal response will be made. Responses will be provided orally during the Informal Discussion Period. During the Formal Comment Period on the permit application, members of the public may state their formal comments orally into the official record. A written response to all timely, relevant and material, or significant comments will be prepared by the Executive Director. All formal comments will be considered before a decision is reached on the permit application. A copy of the written response will be sent to each person who submits a formal comment or who requested to be on the mailing list for this permit application and provides a mailing address. Only relevant and material issues raised during the Formal Comment Period can be considered if a contested case hearing is granted on this permit application.

The Public Meeting is to be held:

Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

GBRA River Annex

905 Nolan Street

Seguin, Texas 78155

INFORMATION. Members of the public are encouraged to submit written comments anytime during the meeting or by mail before the close of the public comment period to the Office of the Chief Clerk, TCEQ, Mail Code MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 or electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/comment. If you need more information about the permit application or the permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program, Toll Free, at (800) 687-4040. Si desea información en español, puede llamar (800) 687-4040. General information about the TCEQ can be found at our web site at https://www.tceq.texas.gov.

The permit application, Executive Director's preliminary decision, and draft permit are available for viewing and copying at Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority General Office, 933 East Court Street, Seguin, Texas. Further information may also be obtained from Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority at the address stated above or by calling Ms. Ashley Lewis, Interim Water Quality/Permitting Team Leader, Plummer, at (512) 687-2154.

Persons with disabilities who need special accommodations at the meeting should call the Office of the Chief Clerk at (512) 239-3300 or (800) RELAY-TX (TDD) at least five business days prior to the meeting.

Issuance Date: December 08, 2023

TRD-202304714

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Notice of Water Quality Application

The following notices was issued on December 7, 2023:

The following notice does not require publication in a newspaper. Written comments or requests for a public meeting may be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, Mail Code 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087, WITHIN (30) DAYS FROM THE DATE THIS NOTICE IS ISSUED.

INFORMATION SECTION

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has initiated a minor amendment of the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit No. WQ0014080001 issued to Southern Utilities Company, to authorize the addition of pH monitoring frequency. The existing permit authorizes the discharge of treated filter backwash effluent from a water treatment plant at a daily average flow not to exceed 6,000 gallons per day. The facility is located at 19246 County Road 178, in Smith County, Texas 75762.

The following notice does not require publication in a newspaper. Written comments or requests for a public meeting may be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, Mail Code 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin Texas 78711-3087 WITHIN (30) DAYS FROM THE DATE THIS NOTICE IS PUBLISHED IN TEXAS REGISTER.

INFORMATION SECTION

Montgomery County Municipal Utility District No. 99 has applied for a minor amendment to Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit No. WQ0014604001 to authorize to add an Interim III phase, and to increase the flow for the Interim I and II phases. The existing permit authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at an annual average flow not to exceed 1,500,000 gallons per day. The facility is located at 2907 Woodland Glen Lane, in Montgomery County, Texas 77385.

TRD-202304715

Laurie Gharis

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: December 13, 2023


Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Public Notice - Texas State Plan for Medical Assistance Amendment

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announces its intent to submit amendments to the Texas State Plan for Medical Assistance under Title XIX of the Social Security Act. The proposed amendment is effective January 1, 2024.

The purpose of the amendment is to clarify the coverage of certain services like durable medical equipment and drugs for renal dialysis services as payable outside of the current composite rate.

The proposed amendment is estimated to result in an annual aggregate expenditure of $41,626 for federal fiscal year (FFY) 2024, consisting of $25,030 in federal funds and $16,596 in state general revenue. For FFY 2025, the estimated annual aggregate expenditure is $61,776 consisting of $37,356 in federal funds and $24,420 in state general revenue. For FFY 2026, the estimated annual aggregate expenditure is $61,121 consisting of $36,978 in federal funds and $24,143 in state general revenue.

Rate Hearing. The details for the hearing will be published at a later date for the alternative payment methodology. Information about the rate hearing and rates will be published in the Texas Register at http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/index.shtml.

Copy of Proposed Amendment(s). To obtain copies of the proposed amendment, interested parties may contact Nicole Hotchkiss, State Plan Coordinator, by mail at the Health and Human Services Commission, P.O. Box 13247, Mail Code H-600, Austin, Texas 78711; by telephone at (512) 438-5035; by facsimile at (512) 730-7472; or by email at medicaid_chip_spa_inquiries@hhsc.state.tx.us. Copies of the proposal will also be made available for public review at the local offices of HHSC.

Written Comments.

Written comments about the proposed amendment and/or requests to review comments may be sent by U.S. mail, overnight mail, special delivery mail, hand delivery, fax, or email:

U.S. Mail

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Attention: Provider Finance Department

Mail Code H-400

P.O. Box 149030

Austin, Texas 78714-9030

Overnight mail, special delivery mail, or hand delivery

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Attention: Provider Finance Department

North Austin Complex

Mail Code H-400

4601 W. Guadalupe St.

Austin, Texas 78751

Phone number for package delivery: (512) 730-7401

Fax

Attention: Provider Finance at (512) 730-7475

Email

pfd_hospitals@hhsc.state.tx.us

Preferred Communication.

For quickest response, please use email or phone, if possible, for communication with HHSC related to this state plan amendment.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Provider Finance at (512) 730-7401 at least 72 hours before the hearing so appropriate arrangements can be made.

TRD-202304589

Karen Ray

Chief Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: December 7, 2023


Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) Release for 2024 Community Services Block Grant Discretionary (CSBG-D) Funds - Native American and Migrant and Seasonal Farm Worker Education and Employment Initiatives

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (the Department) announces the availability of $300,000 in CSBG-Discretionary funding for education and employment initiatives for migrant and seasonal farm worker and Native American populations. Each year the Department sets aside 5% of its annual CSBG allocation for state discretionary use. Each year, funds from CSBG-Discretionary are used for specific identified efforts that the Department supports and other ongoing initiatives such as employment and education programs for migrant and seasonal farm workers and Native Americans. This year, $300,000 has been programmed for migrant and seasonal farm worker and Native American populations' employment and education programs for which the Department is issuing this NOFA. The Department will release funds competitively.

The Department's anticipated contract period for 2024 CSBG-Discretionary migrant and seasonal farm worker and Native American employment and education initiatives is April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025.

Interested applicants must meet the requirements set forth in the NOFA and must submit a complete application through the established system described in the NOFA by Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 5:00 p.m., Austin local time.

The application forms contained in this packet and submission instructions are available on the Department's web site at http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/nofa.htm. Should you have any related questions, please contact Rita Gonzales-Garza at (512) 475-3905 or rita.garza@tdhca.state.tx.us.

TRD-202304602

Bobby Wilkinson

Executive Director

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

Filed: December 8, 2023


Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) Release for 2024 Community Services Block Grant Discretionary (CSBG-D) Funds - Reentry Activities Pilot Program

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (the Department) announces the availability of $400,000 in CSBG Discretionary funding for a Reentry Activities Pilot Program. Each year the Department sets aside 5% of its annual CSBG allocation for state discretionary use. Each year funds from CSBG Discretionary are used for specific identified efforts that the Department supports such as assisting previously incarcerated individuals reenter the community and helping them to obtain rental housing through landlord incentives, security deposits and other reentry activities related to housing. This year, $400,000 has been programmed for the Reentry Activities Pilot Program for which the Department is issuing this NOFA. The Department will release funds competitively.

The Department’s contract period for the 2024 CSBG Discretionary Reentry Activities Pilot Program is 12 months and will begin between March 1, 2024, and July 1, 2024.

Interested applicants must meet the requirements set forth in the application and must submit a complete application through the established system described in the NOFA by 5:00 p.m., Austin local time, Monday, January 15, 2024.

The application forms contained in this packet and submission instructions are available on the Department’s web site at http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/nofa.htm. Should you have any questions, please contact Madison Lozano at (512) 936-7798 or madison.lozano@tdhca.state.tx.us.

TRD-202304603

Bobby Wilkinson

Executive Director

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

Filed: December 8, 2023


Notice of Public Comment Period and Public Hearing on the Draft 2024 State of Texas Low Income Housing Plan and Annual Report

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) will hold a public comment period from Friday, December 22, 2023 through 5:00 p.m. Austin local time on Monday, January 22, 2024, to obtain public comment on the Draft 2024 State of Texas Low Income Housing Plan and Annual Report (SLIHP).

The SLIHP offers a comprehensive reference on statewide housing needs, housing resources, and strategies for funding allocations. It reviews TDHCA's housing programs, current and future policies, resource allocation plans to meet state housing needs, and reports on performance during the preceding state fiscal year (September 1, 2022, through August 31, 2023).

During the public comment period, a public hearing will take place as follows:

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

2:00 p.m. Central Standard Time

Barbara Jordan State Office Building

1601 Congress Ave. Room 2.042

Austin, Texas 78711

Anyone may submit comments on the SLIHP in written form or oral testimony at the public hearing. Written comments may be submitted to Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, Housing Resource Center, P.O. Box 13941, Austin, Texas 78711-3941, by email to the following address: info@tdhca.state.tx.us.

The full text of the Draft 2024 SLIHP may be viewed at the Department’s website: http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/public-comment.htm. The public may also receive a copy of the Draft 2024 SLIHP by contacting TDHCA’s Housing Resource Center at (512) 475-3976.

Individuals who require auxiliary aids, services or sign language interpreters for this public hearing should contact Nancy Dennis, at (512) 475-3959 or by email at nancy.dennis@tdhca.state.tx.us or Relay Texas at 1-800-735-2989, at least five (5) days before the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Non-English speaking individuals who require interpreters for the public hearings should contact Danielle Leath by phone at (512) 475-4606 or by email at Dannielle.Leath@tdhca.state.tx.us at least five (5) days before the hearings so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Personas que hablan español y requieren un intérprete, favor de llamar a Danielle Leath al siguiente número (512) 475-4606 o enviarle un correo electrónico a Danielle.Leath@tdhca.state.tx.us por lo menos cinco días antes de la junta para hacer los preparativos apropiados.

TRD-202304661

Bobby Wilkinson

Executive Director

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

Filed: December 11, 2023


Texas Department of Insurance

Company Licensing

Application for incorporation in the state of Texas for Harbor Health Insurance Company, a domestic life, accident and/or health company. The home office is in Austin, Texas.

Any objections must be filed with the Texas Department of Insurance, within twenty (20) calendar days from the date of the Texas Register publication, addressed to the attention of John Carter, 1601 Congress Ave., Suite 6.900, Austin, Texas 78711.

TRD-202304709

Justin Beam

Chief Clerk

Texas Department of Insurance

Filed: December 13, 2023


Correction of Error

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) proposed new 28 TAC §7.216 in the December 8, 2023, issue of the Texas Register (48 TexReg 7159). Due to an error by TDI, the subsections included in the rule were mis-lettered. The text of the proposed new rule should read as follows:

§7.216. Liquidity Stress Test Framework.

(a) Purpose. This section specifies the requirements for the ultimate controlling person of an insurance holding company system to submit a liquidity stress test framework necessary to report information as required by Insurance Code §823.0596.

(b) Liquidity stress test framework. The commissioner adopts by reference the liquidity stress test framework as adopted and published by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The liquidity stress test framework is available on the department's website.

(c) Scope criteria. The scope criteria are the designated criteria and thresholds described in the liquidity stress test framework as adopted by reference in subsection (b) of this section.

(d) Reporting template. The reporting template an insurer must use is described in the liquidity stress test framework as adopted in subsection (b) of this section.

(e) Filing. Using the reporting template described in the liquidity stress test framework adopted by reference in subsection (b) of this section, the ultimate controlling person of an insurer must submit a liquidity stress test framework filing on or before June 30 of each year, using the appropriate reporting template in an electronic format acceptable to TDI. The electronic filing address is provided on TDI's website at www.tdi.texas.gov.

(f) Exemption. Only after consultation with other state insurance commissioners will the commissioner exempt from the filing requirement a data year that an insurer would otherwise be required to submit under subsection (e) of this section.

(g) Conflicts. In the event of a conflict between the liquidity stress test framework adopted and published by the NAIC and the Insurance Code, any TDI rule, or any specific requirement of this section, the Insurance Code, TDI rule, or specific requirement of this section takes precedence and in all respects controls. The requirements of this section do not repeal, modify, or amend any TDI rule or any Insurance Code provision.

TRD-202304693

Jessica Barta

General Counsel

Texas Department of Insurance

Filed: December 11, 2023


Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Notice of Vacancy on Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Advisory Board

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (Department) announces one vacancy on the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Advisory Board (Board) established by Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 401. The purpose of the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Advisory Board is to provide advice and recommendations to the Department on technical matters relevant to the administration of this chapter. This announcement is for:

- one public member who is a licensed physician in this state and certified in otolaryngology or pediatrics.

The Board is composed of nine members appointed by presiding officer of the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation (Commission), with the Commission’s approval. Members serve staggered six-year terms with the terms of three members expire September 1 of each odd-numbered year. The Board is composed of the following members:

1. three audiologists;

2. three speech-language pathologists; and

3. three members who represent the public.

Advisory board members must:

1. be from the various geographic regions of the state; and

2. be from varying employment settings.

The advisory board members appointed under subsections (a)(1) and (2) must:

1. have been engaged in teaching, research, or providing services in speech-language pathology or audiology for at least five years; and

2. be licensed under this chapter.

One of the public members must be a physician licensed in this state and certified in otolaryngology or pediatrics.

Interested persons should complete an application on the Department website at: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/AdvisoryBoard/login.aspx. Applicants can also request an application from the Department by telephone (800) 803-9202 or e-mail advisory.boards@tdlr.texas.gov.

This is not a paid position and there is no compensation or reimbursement for serving on the Board.

TRD-202304699

Christina Kaiser

Interim Executive Director

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Filed: December 12, 2023


Public Notice - Motorcycle Safety and Training Enforcement Plan

The Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation (Commission) provides this public notice that at their regularly scheduled meeting held December 1, 2023, the Commission adopted the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation’s (Department) enforcement plan, which was established in compliance with Texas Occupations Code, §51.302(c).

The enforcement plan gives all license holders notice of the specific ranges of penalties and license sanctions that apply to specific alleged violations of the statutes and rules enforced by the Department. The enforcement plan also presents the criteria that are considered by the Department’s Enforcement staff in determining the amount of a proposed administrative penalty or the magnitude of a proposed sanction. The enforcement plan is drafted to include the penalty matrix for the Motorcycle Safety and Training program.

The Texas Legislature enacted Senate Bill 616 (S.B. 616), 86th Legislature, Regular Session (2019), which transferred oversight of the Motorcycle and ATV Operator Safety program from the Texas Department of Public Safety to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

The Enforcement Plan was presented to the Commission on December 1, 2023, and was adopted as recommended.

The enforcement plan is posted on the Department’s website.

Enforcement Plan (.pdf)

TRD-202304700

Christina Kaiser

Interim Executive Director

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Filed: December 12, 2023


Texas Lottery Commission

Scratch Ticket Game Number 2563 "MEGA LOTERIA"

1.0 Name and Style of Scratch Ticket Game.

A. The name of Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563 is "MEGA LOTERIA". The play style is "row/column/diagonal".

1.1 Price of Scratch Ticket Game.

A. The price for Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563 shall be $10.00 per Scratch Ticket.

1.2 Definitions in Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563.

A. Display Printing - That area of the Scratch Ticket outside of the area where the overprint and Play Symbols appear.

B. Latex Overprint - The removable scratch-off covering over the Play Symbols on the front of the Scratch Ticket.

C. Play Symbol - The printed data under the latex on the front of the Scratch Ticket that is used to determine eligibility for a prize. Each Play Symbol is printed in Symbol font in black ink in positive except for dual-image games. The possible black Play Symbols are: ARMADILLO SYMBOL, BAT SYMBOL, BICYCLE SYMBOL, BLUEBONNET SYMBOL, BOAR SYMBOL, BUTTERFLY SYMBOL, CACTUS SYMBOL, CARDINAL SYMBOL, CHERRIES SYMBOL, CHILE PEPPER SYMBOL, CORN SYMBOL, COVERED WAGON SYMBOL, COW SYMBOL, COWBOY SYMBOL, COWBOY HAT SYMBOL, DESERT SYMBOL, FIRE SYMBOL, FOOTBALL SYMBOL, GEM SYMBOL, GUITAR SYMBOL, HEN SYMBOL, HORSE SYMBOL, HORSESHOE SYMBOL, JACKRABBIT SYMBOL, LIZARD SYMBOL, LONE STAR SYMBOL, MARACAS SYMBOL, MOCKINGBIRD SYMBOL, MOONRISE SYMBOL, MORTAR PESTLE SYMBOL, NEWSPAPER SYMBOL, OIL RIG SYMBOL, PECAN TREE SYMBOL, PIÑATA SYMBOL, RACE CAR SYMBOL, RATTLESNAKE SYMBOL, ROADRUNNER SYMBOL, SADDLE SYMBOL, SHIP SYMBOL, SHOES SYMBOL, SOCCER BALL SYMBOL, SPEAR SYMBOL, SPUR SYMBOL, STRAWBERRY SYMBOL, SUNSET SYMBOL, WHEEL SYMBOL, WINDMILL SYMBOL, $10.00, $15.00, $20.00, $30.00, $50.00, $100, $200, $500, $1,000 and $5,000.

D. Play Symbol Caption - The printed material appearing below each Play Symbol which explains the Play Symbol. One caption appears under each Play Symbol and is printed in caption font in black ink in positive. The Play Symbol Caption which corresponds with and verifies each Play Symbol is as follows:

Figure 1: GAME NO. 2563 - 1.2D

E. Serial Number - A unique 13 (thirteen) digit number appearing under the latex scratch-off covering on the front of the Scratch Ticket. The Serial Number is for validation purposes and cannot be used to play the game. The format will be: 0000000000000.

F. Bar Code - A 24 (twenty-four) character interleaved two (2) of five (5) Bar Code which will include a four (4) digit game ID, the seven (7) digit Pack number, the three (3) digit Ticket number and the ten (10) digit Validation Number. The Bar Code appears on the back of the Scratch Ticket.

G. Game-Pack-Ticket Number - A 14 (fourteen) digit number consisting of the four (4) digit game number (2563), a seven (7) digit Pack number, and a three (3) digit Ticket number. Ticket numbers start with 001 and end with 050 within each Pack. The format will be: 2563-0000001-001.

H. Pack - A Pack of the "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game contains 050 Tickets, packed in plastic shrink-wrapping and fanfolded in pages of one (1). Ticket back 001 and 050 will both be exposed.

I. Non-Winning Scratch Ticket - A Scratch Ticket which is not programmed to be a winning Scratch Ticket or a Scratch Ticket that does not meet all of the requirements of these Game Procedures, the State Lottery Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 466), and applicable rules adopted by the Texas Lottery pursuant to the State Lottery Act and referenced in 16 TAC, Chapter 401.

J. Scratch Ticket Game, Scratch Ticket or Ticket - Texas Lottery "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563.

2.0 Determination of Prize Winners. The determination of prize winners is subject to the general Scratch Ticket validation requirements set forth in Texas Lottery Rule 401.302, Instant Game Rules, these Game Procedures, and the requirements set out on the back of each Scratch Ticket. Each Scratch Ticket contains exactly 72 (seventy-two) Play Symbols. A prize winner in the "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game is determined once the latex on the Scratch Ticket is scratched off to expose Play Symbols as follows: PLAYBOARDS 1 & 2: 1) The player completely scratches the CALLER’S CARD area to reveal 28 symbols. 2) The player scratches ONLY the symbols on both PLAYBOARDS that exactly match the symbols revealed on the CALLER’S CARD. 3) If the player reveals a complete row, column or diagonal line on either PLAYBOARD, the player wins the prize for that line. BONUS GAMES: The player scratches ONLY the symbols on the BONUS GAMES that exactly match the symbols revealed on the CALLER’S CARD. If the player reveals 2 symbols in the same GAME, the player wins the PRIZE for that GAME. TABLAS DE JUEGO 1 Y 2: 1) El jugador raspa completamente la CARTA DEL GRITÓN para revelar 28 símbolos. 2) El jugador SOLAMENTE raspa los símbolos en las dos TABLAS DE JUEGO que son exactamente iguales a los símbolos revelados en la CARTA DEL GRITÓN. 3) Si el jugador revela una línea completa, horizontal, vertical o diagonal en cualquiera TABLA DE JUEGO, el jugador gana el premio para esa línea. JUEGOS DE BONO: El jugador SOLAMENTE raspa los símbolos en los JUEGOS DE BONO que son exactamente iguales a los símbolos revelados en la CARTA DEL GRITÓN. Si el jugador revela 2 símbolos en el mismo JUEGO, el jugador gana el PREMIO para ese JUEGO. No portion of the Display Printing nor any extraneous matter whatsoever shall be usable or playable as a part of the Scratch Ticket.

2.1 Scratch Ticket Validation Requirements.

A. To be a valid Scratch Ticket, all of the following requirements must be met:

1. Exactly 72 (seventy-two) Play Symbols must appear under the Latex Overprint on the front portion of the Scratch Ticket;

2. Each of the Play Symbols must have a Play Symbol Caption underneath, unless specified, and each Play Symbol must agree with its Play Symbol Caption;

3. Each of the Play Symbols must be present in its entirety and be fully legible;

4. Each of the Play Symbols must be printed in black ink except for dual image games;

5. The Scratch Ticket shall be intact;

6. The Serial Number and Game-Pack-Ticket Number must be present in their entirety and be fully legible;

7. The Serial Number must correspond, using the Texas Lottery's codes, to the Play Symbols on the Scratch Ticket;

8. The Scratch Ticket must not have a hole punched through it, be mutilated, altered, unreadable, reconstituted or tampered with in any manner;

9. The Scratch Ticket must not be counterfeit in whole or in part;

10. The Scratch Ticket must have been issued by the Texas Lottery in an authorized manner;

11. The Scratch Ticket must not have been stolen, nor appear on any list of omitted Scratch Tickets or non-activated Scratch Tickets on file at the Texas Lottery;

12. The Play Symbols, Serial Number and Game-Pack-Ticket Number must be right side up and not reversed in any manner;

13. The Scratch Ticket must be complete and not miscut, and have exactly 72 (seventy-two) Play Symbols under the Latex Overprint on the front portion of the Scratch Ticket, exactly one Serial Number and exactly one Game-Pack-Ticket Number on the Scratch Ticket;

14. The Serial Number of an apparent winning Scratch Ticket shall correspond with the Texas Lottery's Serial Numbers for winning Scratch Tickets, and a Scratch Ticket with that Serial Number shall not have been paid previously;

15. The Scratch Ticket must not be blank or partially blank, misregistered, defective or printed or produced in error;

16. Each of the 72 (seventy-two) Play Symbols must be exactly one of those described in Section 1.2.C of these Game Procedures;

17. Each of the 72 (seventy-two) Play Symbols on the Scratch Ticket must be printed in the Symbol font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; the Scratch Ticket Serial Numbers must be printed in the Serial font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; and the Game-Pack-Ticket Number must be printed in the Game-Pack-Ticket Number font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery;

18. The Display Printing on the Scratch Ticket must be regular in every respect and correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; and

19. The Scratch Ticket must have been received by the Texas Lottery by applicable deadlines.

B. The Scratch Ticket must pass all additional validation tests provided for in these Game Procedures, the Texas Lottery's Rules governing the award of prizes of the amount to be validated, and any confidential validation and security tests of the Texas Lottery.

C. Any Scratch Ticket not passing all of the validation requirements is void and ineligible for any prize and shall not be paid. However, the Executive Director may, solely at the Executive Director's discretion, refund the retail sales price of the Scratch Ticket. In the event a defective Scratch Ticket is purchased, the only responsibility or liability of the Texas Lottery shall be to replace the defective Scratch Ticket with another unplayed Scratch Ticket in that Scratch Ticket Game (or a Scratch Ticket of equivalent sales price from any other current Texas Lottery Scratch Ticket Game) or refund the retail sales price of the Scratch Ticket, solely at the Executive Director's discretion.

2.2 Programmed Game Parameters

A. GENERAL: A Ticket can win up to eight (8) times in accordance with the prize structure.

B. GENERAL: Consecutive Non-Winning Tickets within a Pack will not have matching patterns, in the same order, of either Play Symbols or Prize Symbols.

C. PLAYBOARDS/TABLAS DE JUEGO: There will be no matching Play Symbols in the CALLER'S CARD/CARTA DEL GRITÓN play area.

D. PLAYBOARDS/TABLAS DE JUEGO: At least fourteen (14) but no more than twenty-six (26) CALLER'S CARD/CARTA DEL GRITÓN Play Symbols will match a Play Symbol on either PLAYBOARD/TABLA DE JUEGO play area.

E. PLAYBOARDS/TABLAS DE JUEGO: No identical Play Symbols are allowed on the same PLAYBOARD/TABLA DE JUEGO play area.

F. BONUS GAMES/JUEGOS DE BONO: Every BONUS GAME/JUEGO DE BONO Grid will match at least one (1) Play Symbol to the CALLER'S CARD/CARTA DEL GRITÓN play area.

2.3 Procedure for Claiming Prizes.

A. To claim a "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game prize of $10.00, $15.00, $20.00, $30.00, $50.00, $100, $200 or $500, a claimant shall sign the back of the Scratch Ticket in the space designated on the Scratch Ticket and present the winning Scratch Ticket to any Texas Lottery Retailer. The Texas Lottery Retailer shall verify the claim and, if valid, and upon presentation of proper identification, if appropriate, make payment of the amount due the claimant and physically void the Scratch Ticket; provided that the Texas Lottery Retailer may, but is not required, to pay a $30.00, $50.00, $100, $200 or $500 Scratch Ticket Game. In the event the Texas Lottery Retailer cannot verify the claim, the Texas Lottery Retailer shall provide the claimant with a claim form and instruct the claimant on how to file a claim with the Texas Lottery. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, a check shall be forwarded to the claimant in the amount due. In the event the claim is not validated, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly. A claimant may also claim any of the above prizes under the procedure described in Section 2.3.B and Section 2.3.C of these Game Procedures.

B. To claim a "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game prize of $1,000, $5,000 or $250,000, the claimant must sign the winning Scratch Ticket and present it at one of the Texas Lottery's Claim Centers. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, payment will be made to the bearer of the validated winning Scratch Ticket for that prize upon presentation of proper identification. When paying a prize of $600 or more, the Texas Lottery shall file the appropriate income reporting form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and shall withhold federal income tax at a rate set by the IRS if required. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

C. As an alternative method of claiming a "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game prize, the claimant may submit the signed winning Scratch Ticket and a thoroughly completed claim form via mail. If a prize value is $1,000,000 or more, the claimant must also provide proof of Social Security number or Tax Payer Identification (for U.S. Citizens or Resident Aliens). Mail all to: Texas Lottery Commission, P.O. Box 16600, Austin, Texas 78761-6600. The Texas Lottery is not responsible for Scratch Tickets lost in the mail. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

D. Prior to payment by the Texas Lottery of any prize, the Texas Lottery shall deduct the amount of a delinquent tax or other money from the winnings of a prize winner who has been finally determined to be:

1. delinquent in the payment of a tax or other money to a state agency and that delinquency is reported to the Comptroller under Government Code §403.055;

2. in default on a loan made under Chapter 52, Education Code;

3. in default on a loan guaranteed under Chapter 57, Education Code; or

4. delinquent child support payments in the amount determined by a court or a Title IV-D agency under Chapter 231, Family Code.

E. If a person is indebted or owes delinquent taxes to the State, other than those specified in the preceding paragraph, the winnings of a person shall be withheld until the debt or taxes are paid.

2.4 Allowance for Delay of Payment. The Texas Lottery may delay payment of the prize pending a final determination by the Executive Director, under any of the following circumstances:

A. if a dispute occurs, or it appears likely that a dispute may occur, regarding the prize;

B. if there is any question regarding the identity of the claimant;

C. if there is any question regarding the validity of the Scratch Ticket presented for payment; or

D. if the claim is subject to any deduction from the payment otherwise due, as described in Section 2.3.D of these Game Procedures. No liability for interest for any delay shall accrue to the benefit of the claimant pending payment of the claim.

2.5 Payment of Prizes to Persons Under 18. If a person under the age of 18 years is entitled to a cash prize under $600 from the "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game, the Texas Lottery shall deliver to an adult member of the minor's family or the minor's guardian a check or warrant in the amount of the prize payable to the order of the minor.

2.6 If a person under the age of 18 years is entitled to a cash prize of $600 or more from the "MEGA LOTERIA" Scratch Ticket Game, the Texas Lottery shall deposit the amount of the prize in a custodial bank account, with an adult member of the minor's family or the minor's guardian serving as custodian for the minor.

2.7 Scratch Ticket Claim Period. All Scratch Ticket prizes must be claimed within 180 days following the end of the Scratch Ticket Game or within the applicable time period for certain eligible military personnel as set forth in Texas Government Code §466.408. Any rights to a prize that is not claimed within that period, and in the manner specified in these Game Procedures and on the back of each Scratch Ticket, shall be forfeited.

2.8 Disclaimer. The number of prizes in a game is approximate based on the number of Scratch Tickets ordered. The number of actual prizes available in a game may vary based on number of Scratch Tickets manufactured, testing, distribution, sales and number of prizes claimed. A Scratch Ticket Game may continue to be sold even when all the top prizes have been claimed.

3.0 Scratch Ticket Ownership.

A. Until such time as a signature is placed upon the back portion of a Scratch Ticket in the space designated, a Scratch Ticket shall be owned by the physical possessor of said Scratch Ticket. When a signature is placed on the back of the Scratch Ticket in the space designated, the player whose signature appears in that area shall be the owner of the Scratch Ticket and shall be entitled to any prize attributable thereto. Notwithstanding any name or names submitted on a claim form, the Executive Director shall make payment to the player whose signature appears on the back of the Scratch Ticket in the space designated. If more than one name appears on the back of the Scratch Ticket, the Executive Director will require that one of those players whose name appears thereon be designated by such players to receive payment.

B. The Texas Lottery shall not be responsible for lost or stolen Scratch Tickets and shall not be required to pay on a lost or stolen Scratch Ticket.

4.0 Number and Value of Scratch Ticket Prizes. There will be approximately 49,200,000 Scratch Tickets in Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563. The approximate number and value of prizes in the game are as follows:

Figure 2: GAME NO. 2563 - 4.0 (.pdf)

A. The actual number of Scratch Tickets in the game may be increased or decreased at the sole discretion of the Texas Lottery Commission.

5.0 End of the Scratch Ticket Game. The Executive Director may, at any time, announce a closing date (end date) for the Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563 without advance notice, at which point no further Scratch Tickets in that game may be sold. The determination of the closing date and reasons for closing will be made in accordance with the Scratch Ticket closing procedures and the Instant Game Rules. See 16 TAC §401.302(j).

6.0 Governing Law. In purchasing a Scratch Ticket, the player agrees to comply with, and abide by, these Game Procedures for Scratch Ticket Game No. 2563, the State Lottery Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 466), applicable rules adopted by the Texas Lottery pursuant to the State Lottery Act and referenced in 16 TAC, Chapter 401, and all final decisions of the Executive Director.

TRD-202304707

Bob Biard

General Counsel

Texas Lottery Commission

Filed: December 13, 2023


Scratch Ticket Game Number 2588 "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS"

1.0 Name and Style of Scratch Ticket Game.

A. The name of Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588 is "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS". The play style is "key number match".

1.1 Price of Scratch Ticket Game.

A. The price for Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588 shall be $100.00 per Scratch Ticket.

1.2 Definitions in Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588.

A. Display Printing - That area of the Scratch Ticket outside of the area where the overprint and Play Symbols appear.

B. Latex Overprint - The removable scratch-off covering over the Play Symbols on the front of the Scratch Ticket.

C. Play Symbol - The printed data under the latex on the front of the Scratch Ticket that is used to determine eligibility for a prize. Each Play Symbol is printed in Symbol font in black ink in positive except for dual-image games. The possible black Play Symbols are: 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, STACK OF CASH SYMBOL, DIAMOND SYMBOL, $150, $200, $300, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $50,000 and $5,000,000.

D. Play Symbol Caption - The printed material appearing below each Play Symbol which explains the Play Symbol. One caption appears under each Play Symbol and is printed in caption font in black ink in positive. The Play Symbol Caption which corresponds with and verifies each Play Symbol is as follows:

Figure 1: GAME NO. 2588 - 1.2D (.pdf)

E. Serial Number - A unique thirteen (13) digit number appearing under the latex scratch-off covering on the front of the Scratch Ticket. The Serial Number is for validation purposes and cannot be used to play the game. The format will be: 0000000000000.

F. Bar Code - A twenty-four (24) character interleaved two (2) of five (5) Bar Code which will include a four (4) digit game ID, the seven (7) digit Pack number, the three (3) digit Ticket number and the ten (10) digit Validation Number. The Bar Code appears on the back of the Scratch Ticket.

G. Game-Pack-Ticket Number - A fourteen (14) digit number consisting of the four (4) digit game number (2588), a seven (7) digit Pack number, and a three (3) digit Ticket number. Ticket numbers start with 001 and end with 015 within each Pack. The format will be: 2588-0000001-001.

H. Pack - A Pack of the "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game contains 015 Tickets, packed in plastic shrink-wrapping and fanfolded in pages of one (1). The front of Ticket 001 will be shown on the front of the Pack; the back of Ticket 015 will be revealed on the back of the Pack. All Packs will be tightly shrink-wrapped. There will be no breaks between the tickets in a Pack.

I. Non-Winning Scratch Ticket - A Scratch Ticket which is not programmed to be a winning Scratch Ticket or a Scratch Ticket that does not meet all of the requirements of these Game Procedures, the State Lottery Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 466), and applicable rules adopted by the Texas Lottery pursuant to the State Lottery Act and referenced in 16 TAC, Chapter 401.

J. Scratch Ticket Game, Scratch Ticket or Ticket - Texas Lottery "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588.

2.0 Determination of Prize Winners. The determination of prize winners is subject to the general Scratch Ticket validation requirements set forth in Texas Lottery Rule 401.302, Scratch Ticket Game Rules, these Game Procedures, and the requirements set out on the back of each Scratch Ticket. A prize winner in the "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game is determined once the latex on the Scratch Ticket is scratched off to expose eighty-three (83) Play Symbols. BONUS PLAY INSTRUCTIONS: If a player reveals 2 matching prize amounts in the same BONUS Play Area, the player wins that amount. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS PLAY INSTRUCTIONS: If a player matches any of the YOUR NUMBERS Play Symbols to any of the WINNING NUMBERS, the player wins the prize for that number. If the player reveals a "STACK OF CASH" Play Symbol, the player wins the prize for that symbol instantly. If the player reveals a "DIAMOND" Play Symbol, the player wins DOUBLE the prize for that symbol. No portion of the Display Printing nor any extraneous matter whatsoever shall be usable or playable as a part of the Scratch Ticket.

2.1 Scratch Ticket Validation Requirements.

A. To be a valid Scratch Ticket, all of the following requirements must be met:

1. Exactly eighty-three (83) Play Symbols must appear under the Latex Overprint on the front portion of the Scratch Ticket;

2. Each of the Play Symbols must have a Play Symbol Caption underneath, unless specified, and each Play Symbol must agree with its Play Symbol Caption;

3. Each of the Play Symbols must be present in its entirety and be fully legible;

4. Each of the Play Symbols must be printed in black ink except for dual image games;

5. The Scratch Ticket shall be intact;

6. The Serial Number and Game-Pack-Ticket Number must be present in their entirety and be fully legible;

7. The Serial Number must correspond, using the Texas Lottery's codes, to the Play Symbols on the Scratch Ticket;

8. The Scratch Ticket must not have a hole punched through it, be mutilated, altered, unreadable, reconstituted or tampered with in any manner;

9. The Scratch Ticket must not be counterfeit in whole or in part;

10. The Scratch Ticket must have been issued by the Texas Lottery in an authorized manner;

11. The Scratch Ticket must not have been stolen, nor appear on any list of omitted Scratch Tickets or non-activated Scratch Tickets on file at the Texas Lottery;

12. The Play Symbols, Serial Number and Game-Pack-Ticket Number must be right side up and not reversed in any manner;

13. The Scratch Ticket must be complete and not miscut, and have exactly eighty-three (83) Play Symbols under the Latex Overprint on the front portion of the Scratch Ticket, exactly one Serial Number and exactly one Game-Pack-Ticket Number on the Scratch Ticket;

14. The Serial Number of an apparent winning Scratch Ticket shall correspond with the Texas Lottery's Serial Numbers for winning Scratch Tickets, and a Scratch Ticket with that Serial Number shall not have been paid previously;

15. The Scratch Ticket must not be blank or partially blank, misregistered, defective or printed or produced in error;

16. Each of the eighty-three (83) Play Symbols must be exactly one of those described in Section 1.2.C of these Game Procedures;

17. Each of the eighty-three (83) Play Symbols on the Scratch Ticket must be printed in the Symbol font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; the Scratch Ticket Serial Numbers must be printed in the Serial font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; and the Game-Pack-Ticket Number must be printed in the Game-Pack-Ticket Number font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery;

18. The Display Printing on the Scratch Ticket must be regular in every respect and correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; and

19. The Scratch Ticket must have been received by the Texas Lottery by applicable deadlines.

B. The Scratch Ticket must pass all additional validation tests provided for in these Game Procedures, the Texas Lottery's Rules governing the award of prizes of the amount to be validated, and any confidential validation and security tests of the Texas Lottery.

C. Any Scratch Ticket not passing all of the validation requirements is void and ineligible for any prize and shall not be paid. However, the Executive Director may, solely at the Executive Director's discretion, refund the retail sales price of the Scratch Ticket. In the event a defective Scratch Ticket is purchased, the only responsibility or liability of the Texas Lottery shall be to replace the defective Scratch Ticket with another unplayed Scratch Ticket in that Scratch Ticket Game (or a Scratch Ticket of equivalent sales price from any other current Texas Lottery Scratch Ticket Game) or refund the retail sales price of the Scratch Ticket, solely at the Executive Director's discretion.

2.2 Programmed Game Parameters.

A. GENERAL: Consecutive Non-Winning Tickets within a Pack will not have matching patterns, in the same order, of either Play Symbols or Prize Symbols.

B. GENERAL: A Ticket can win as indicated by the prize structure.

C. GENERAL: A Ticket can win up to thirty-eight (38) times.

D. GENERAL: The "STACK OF CASH" (WIN$) and "DIAMOND" (DBL) Play Symbols will never appear in any of the three (3) BONUS play areas.

E. BONUS: A Ticket can win up to one (1) time in each of the three (3) BONUS play areas.

F. BONUS: A Ticket will not have matching, non-winning Prize Symbols across the three (3) BONUS play areas.

G. BONUS: Non-winning Prize Symbols in a BONUS play area will not be the same as winning Prize Symbols from another BONUS play area.

H. BONUS: A non-winning BONUS play area will have two (2) different Prize Symbols.

I. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: A Ticket can win up to thirty-five (35) times in the main play area.

J. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: All non-winning YOUR NUMBERS Play Symbols will be different.

K. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: Non-winning Prize Symbols will not match a winning Prize Symbol on a Ticket.

L. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: All WINNING NUMBERS Play Symbols will be different.

M. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: Tickets winning more than one (1) time will use as many WINNING NUMBERS Play Symbols as possible to create matches, unless restricted by other parameters, play action or prize structure.

N. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: On all Tickets, a Prize Symbol will not appear more than seven (7) times, except as required by the prize structure to create multiple wins.

O. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: On Non-Winning Tickets, a WINNING NUMBERS Play Symbol will never match a YOUR NUMBERS Play Symbol.

P. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: On winning and Non-Winning Tickets, the top cash prizes of $1,000, $2,500, $50,000 and $5,000,000 will each appear at least once, except on Tickets winning thirty-eight (38) times and with respect to other parameters, play action or prize structure.

Q. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "STACK OF CASH" (WIN$) Play Symbol will never appear on the same Ticket as the "DIAMOND" (DBL) Play Symbol.

R. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "STACK OF CASH" (WIN$) Play Symbol will win the prize for that Play Symbol.

S. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "STACK OF CASH" (WIN$) Play Symbol will never appear more than one (1) time on a Ticket.

T. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "STACK OF CASH" (WIN$) Play Symbol will never appear on a Non-Winning Ticket.

U. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "STACK OF CASH" (WIN$) Play Symbol will never appear as a WINNING NUMBERS Play Symbol.

V. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "DIAMOND" (DBL) Play Symbol will never appear as a WINNING NUMBERS Play Symbol.

W. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "DIAMOND" (DBL) Play Symbol will never appear on a Non-Winning Ticket.

X. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "DIAMOND" (DBL) Play Symbol will win DOUBLE the prize for that Play Symbol and will win as per the prize structure.

Y. $400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS: The "DIAMOND" (DBL) Play Symbol will never appear more than one (1) time on a Ticket.

2.3 Procedure for Claiming Prizes.

A. To claim a "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game prize of $150, $200, $300 or $500, a claimant shall sign the back of the Scratch Ticket in the space designated on the Scratch Ticket and may present the winning Scratch Ticket to any Texas Lottery Retailer. The Texas Lottery Retailer shall verify the claim and, if valid, and upon presentation of proper identification, if appropriate, make payment of the amount due the claimant and physically void the Scratch Ticket; provided that the Texas Lottery Retailer may, but is not required, to pay a $150, $200, $300 or $500 Scratch Ticket Game. In the event the Texas Lottery Retailer cannot verify the claim, the Texas Lottery Retailer shall provide the claimant with a claim form and instruct the claimant on how to file a claim with the Texas Lottery. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, a check shall be forwarded to the claimant in the amount due. In the event the claim is not validated, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly. A claimant may also claim any of the above prizes under the procedure described in Section 2.3.B and Section 2.3.C of these Game Procedures.

B. To claim a "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game prize of $1,000, $2,500 or $50,000, the claimant must sign the winning Scratch Ticket and may present it at one of the Texas Lottery's Claim Centers. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, payment will be made to the bearer of the validated winning Scratch Ticket for that prize upon presentation of proper identification. When paying a prize of $600 or more, the Texas Lottery shall file the appropriate income reporting form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and shall withhold federal income tax at a rate set by the IRS if required. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

C. To claim a "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game top level prize of $5,000,000, the claimant must sign the winning Scratch Ticket and may present it at one of the Texas Lottery's Claim Centers in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston or San Antonio, Texas. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, payment will be made to the bearer of the validated winning Scratch Ticket for that prize upon presentation of proper identification and proof of Social Security number or Tax Payer Identification (for U.S. Citizens or Resident Aliens). The Texas Lottery shall file the appropriate income reporting form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and shall withhold federal income tax at a rate set by the IRS if required. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

D. As an alternative method of claiming a "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game prize, including the top level prize of $5,000,000, the claimant may submit the signed winning Scratch Ticket and a thoroughly completed claim form via mail. If a prize value is $1,000,000 or more, the claimant must also provide proof of Social Security number or Tax Payer Identification (for U.S. Citizens or Resident Aliens). Mail all to: Texas Lottery Commission, P.O. Box 16600, Austin, Texas 78761-6600. The Texas Lottery is not responsible for Scratch Tickets lost in the mail. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

E. Prior to payment by the Texas Lottery of any prize, the Texas Lottery shall deduct the amount of a delinquent tax or other money from the winnings of a prize winner who has been finally determined to be:

1. delinquent in the payment of a tax or other money to a state agency and that delinquency is reported to the Comptroller under Government Code §403.055;

2. in default on a loan made under Chapter 52, Education Code;

3. in default on a loan guaranteed under Chapter 57, Education Code; or

4. delinquent in child support payments in the amount determined by a court or a Title IV-D agency under Chapter 231, Family Code.

F. If a person is indebted or owes delinquent taxes to the State, other than those specified in the preceding paragraph, the winnings of a person shall be withheld until the debt or taxes are paid.

2.4 Allowance for Delay of Payment. The Texas Lottery may delay payment of the prize pending a final determination by the Executive Director, under any of the following circumstances:

A. if a dispute occurs, or it appears likely that a dispute may occur, regarding the prize;

B. if there is any question regarding the identity of the claimant;

C. if there is any question regarding the validity of the Scratch Ticket presented for payment; or

D. if the claim is subject to any deduction from the payment otherwise due, as described in Section 2.3.D of these Game Procedures. No liability for interest for any delay shall accrue to the benefit of the claimant pending payment of the claim.

2.5 Payment of Prizes to Persons Under 18. If a person under the age of 18 years is entitled to a cash prize under $600 from the "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game, the Texas Lottery shall deliver to an adult member of the minor's family or the minor's guardian a check or warrant in the amount of the prize payable to the order of the minor.

2.6 If a person under the age of 18 years is entitled to a cash prize of $600 or more from the "$400 MILLION MEGA BUCKS" Scratch Ticket Game, the Texas Lottery shall deposit the amount of the prize in a custodial bank account, with an adult member of the minor's family or the minor's guardian serving as custodian for the minor.

2.7 Scratch Ticket Claim Period. All Scratch Ticket prizes must be claimed within 180 days following the end of the Scratch Ticket Game or within the applicable time period for certain eligible military personnel as set forth in Texas Government Code §466.408. Any rights to a prize that is not claimed within that period, and in the manner specified in these Game Procedures and on the back of each Scratch Ticket, shall be forfeited.

2.8 Disclaimer. The number of prizes in a game is approximate based on the number of Scratch Tickets ordered. The number of actual prizes available in a game may vary based on number of Scratch Tickets manufactured, testing, distribution, sales and number of prizes claimed. A Scratch Ticket Game may continue to be sold even when all the top prizes have been claimed.

3.0 Scratch Ticket Ownership.

A. Until such time as a signature is placed upon the back portion of a Scratch Ticket in the space designated, a Scratch Ticket shall be owned by the physical possessor of said Scratch Ticket. When a signature is placed on the back of the Scratch Ticket in the space designated, the player whose signature appears in that area shall be the owner of the Scratch Ticket and shall be entitled to any prize attributable thereto. Notwithstanding any name or names submitted on a claim form, the Executive Director shall make payment to the player whose signature appears on the back of the Scratch Ticket in the space designated. If more than one name appears on the back of the Scratch Ticket, the Executive Director will require that one of those players whose name appears thereon be designated by such players to receive payment.

B. The Texas Lottery shall not be responsible for lost or stolen Scratch Tickets and shall not be required to pay on a lost or stolen Scratch Ticket.

4.0 Number and Value of Scratch Prizes. There will be approximately 5,160,000 Scratch Tickets in Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588. The approximate number and value of prizes in the game are as follows:

Figure 2: GAME NO. 2588 - 4.0 (.pdf)

A. The actual number of Scratch Tickets in the game may be increased or decreased at the sole discretion of the Texas Lottery Commission.

5.0 End of the Scratch Ticket Game. The Executive Director may, at any time, announce a closing date (end date) for the Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588 without advance notice, at which point no further Scratch Tickets in that game may be sold. The determination of the closing date and reasons for closing will be made in accordance with the Scratch Ticket closing procedures and the Scratch Ticket Game Rules. See 16 TAC §401.302(j).

6.0 Governing Law. In purchasing a Scratch Ticket, the player agrees to comply with, and abide by, these Game Procedures for Scratch Ticket Game No. 2588, the State Lottery Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 466), applicable rules adopted by the Texas Lottery pursuant to the State Lottery Act and referenced in 16 TAC, Chapter 401, and all final decisions of the Executive Director.

TRD-202304718

Bob Biard

General Counsel

Texas Lottery Commission

Filed: December 13, 2023


Public Utility Commission of Texas

Notice of Intent to Implement a Minor Rate Change Under 16 Texas Administrative Code 26.171

Notice is given to the public of an application filed with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (Commission) on December 5, 2023, to implement a minor rate change under 16 Texas Administrative Code §26.171.

Tariff Control Title and Number: Application Livingston Telephone Company, Inc. for a Minor Rate Change Under 16 TAC §26.171, Tariff Control Number 55946.

The Application: On December 5, 2023, Livingston Telephone Company, Inc. filed an application with the Commission for approval to make a minor change in its rates to reduce the restoration charge for customers who may have had their service temporarily suspended for non-payment charges. The proposed rate changes will take effect on December 11, 2023. The estimated net decrease to Livingston Telephone's total regulated intrastate gross annual revenues due to the proposed changes is approximately $3,564. If the Commission receives a complaint(s) relating to this proposal signed by 5% or more of Livingston Telephone's customers to which this proposal applies prior to December 11, 2023, the notice will be docketed. The 5% threshold will be calculated based upon the total number of affected customers as of the calendar month preceding the Commission's receipt of the complaint(s). As of October 1, 2023, the 5% threshold equals approximately 141 customers.

Persons wishing to comment on this application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas by January 3, 2024. Requests to intervene should be filed with the Commission's Filing Clerk at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, or you may call the Commission at (512) 936-7120 or toll-free (800) 735-2989. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the Commission through Relay Texas by dialing 7-1-1. All correspondence should refer to Tariff Control Number 55946.

TRD-202304592

Andrea Gonzalez

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: December 8, 2023