Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4442

Caption

Relating to the regulation of oil and gas waste; imposing a fee.

Impact

The legislation proposes specific amendments that require operators to disclose information regarding the disposal of oil and gas waste, particularly concerning the location of noncommercial surface disposal. Furthermore, the bill mandates the development of a system for identifying high-risk abandoned wells that could potentially contaminate water resources. This risk prioritization signifies a shift toward more proactive measures in safeguarding Texas's environmental resources while also aiming to promote waste reduction and minimization through training and technical assistance for operators.

Summary

House Bill 4442 focuses on the regulation of oil and gas waste in Texas, introducing measures designed to enhance oversight and management of waste generated from oil and gas operations. A notable provision of the bill is the imposition of a nonrefundable fee of $200 for a permit to utilize reserve pits at well sites for waste disposal. This fee is aimed at encouraging responsible waste management practices and ensuring that operators comply with the proposed regulatory framework. The bill seeks to amend sections of the Natural Resources Code in an effort to streamline waste disposal processes and maintain environmental integrity.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 4442 is mixed. Supporters believe that the increased regulation and associated fees will lead to safer and more sustainable practices within the oil and gas industry. They argue that the bill is a necessary step in minimizing environmental impact and enhancing the accountability of operators. However, there are concerns from various stakeholders about the potential financial burden on smaller operators, as well as apprehensions regarding the effectiveness of the regulatory measures in preventing waste mismanagement.

Contention

Some points of contention include the impact of the nonrefundable fee on small operators who may struggle with the additional costs in an already competitive market. Furthermore, there are debates about the adequacy of the proposed regulatory framework in addressing the complex issues of waste management and environmental protection. Critics argue that while the intention of the bill is to enhance oversight, without substantial enforcement mechanisms, it may not significantly change current practices. As such, ongoing discussions will likely revolve around the practicality of the bill's provisions and their implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1721

Relating to the regulation of oil and gas waste; imposing a fee.

TX HB3884

Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.

TX HB4046

Relating to the reduction and plugging of orphaned oil and gas wells; providing for the imposition of a fee and an exemption from certain taxes and fees.

TX SB1686

Relating to the reduction and plugging of orphaned oil and gas wells; providing for the imposition of a fee and an exemption from certain taxes and fees.

TX HB3060

Relating to the regulation of recycling and recycled products.

TX HB4072

Relating to the verification disclosure of the contents of oil and gas waste stored in pits at commercial oil and gas waste disposal facilities.

TX SB2309

Relating to the verification disclosure of the contents of oil and gas waste stored in pits at commercial oil and gas waste disposal facilities.

TX HB697

Relating to seller's disclosures regarding fuel gas piping in residential real property.

TX HB4484

Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land and to the use of that space for the geologic storage of carbon dioxide; authorizing a fee.

TX SB156

Relating to the regulation and management of the use of groundwater and regulation of groundwater conservation districts.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.