Texas House Bill HB276

Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to the establishment by the Railroad Commission of Texas of a policy to eliminate the routine flaring of natural gas from wells or other facilities regulated by the commission.

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to have significant implications for energy production practices in Texas. By setting a clear deadline for elimination of routine flaring, the bill pushes operators to seek alternatives for managing excess natural gas. This could involve investing in new technologies or practices that allow for the effective storage and transportation of natural gas, potentially leading to more efficient energy production and reduced environmental impact.

Summary

House Bill 276 aims to address the environmental and regulatory challenges associated with the routine flaring of natural gas in Texas. This bill mandates the Railroad Commission of Texas to establish a policy aimed at eliminating such flaring by December 31, 2025. The intent of the bill is to ensure that natural gas, which is a valuable energy resource, is utilized effectively rather than being burned off, which is often seen as wasteful and environmentally harmful.

Contention

However, the bill may face contention related to the balance between regulatory measures and the operational realities of the oil and gas industry. Critics may argue that the timeline set for phasing out flaring could impose undue economic burdens on operators, particularly smaller companies. Additionally, there could be concerns about how the rules implemented by the Railroad Commission might affect safety during emergencies, as the bill does allow for some exemptions to flaring during such instances.