Relating to oil and gas operations in connection with certain state land.
Impact
If enacted, HB2915 would alter how oil and gas leases are managed on state properties, particularly in relation to roads and highways. It establishes the requirement for compensatory royalties to be paid monthly to the state, based on production values, ensuring that the state is fairly compensated for resources extracted from its lands. This adjustment is intended to bolster the state's revenue from oil and gas operations while allowing for continued oversight of these activities on state-owned properties.
Summary
House Bill 2915 focuses on oil and gas operations in relation to certain state lands in Texas. The bill amends existing regulations found in the Natural Resources Code, particularly Subchapter A of Chapter 32, which governs the administration and leasing of oil and gas on state-owned land. Key elements include adjustments to the definitions and applications of oil and gas leases as they relate to highway and road rights-of-way, and clarifications regarding the compensation due to the state from these operations. The changes aim to streamline the leasing process for oil and gas development on specific state-owned lands.
Contention
There may be points of contention surrounding HB2915 regarding the balance of economic benefits from oil and gas extraction versus environmental concerns. As the bill potentially increases commercial activities on state lands, stakeholders may debate the implications for local ecosystems and public access to natural resources. The changes in royalty structures might also spark discussions among industry representatives about the fairness and financial impacts of increased state involvement in oil and gas operations.
Relating to the approval and creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; and to the administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the district, including the authority to impose an assessment, a tax, and issue bonds.
Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating to the national research university fund a portion of certain income from the lease for oil and gas exploration of land dedicated to the permanent university fund.
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.
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.