Texas Senate Bill SB2064

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to methane gas reduction by The University of Texas System.

Impact

The bill introduces new requirements for lessees involved with oil and gas operations on university land, compelling them to adopt proactive strategies for methane reduction. It obliges the University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology to conduct studies aimed at determining best practices for minimizing emissions. Following the completion of the studies, the bureau is tasked with providing recommendations for legislative measures that would support these best practices, potentially influencing both state emissions standards and operational protocols in the wider industry.

Summary

SB2064 is a legislative proposal focusing on methane gas reduction linked to oil and gas operations conducted on land managed by The University of Texas System. The bill mandates that lessees under the university's oil and gas leases implement methane reduction plans. These plans are to be reviewed and approved by the university's board of regents, ensuring that effective practices are employed in reducing methane emissions. The measure represents a structured approach to identifying and mitigating emissions that contribute to climate change, particularly from the state's significant oil and gas sector.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding SB2064 is the balance between environmental concerns and the economic interests of the oil and gas sector. Advocates of the bill argue that implementing methane reduction measures is essential for protecting the environment and complying with increasing regulatory pressures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the financial burden of compliance on lessees and the potential economic impact on oil and gas exploration activities. The effectiveness of the bill relies heavily on the ability of the university and the lessees to develop and implement scientifically sound and economically viable methane reduction plans.