Relating to the continuation, functions, and name of the Railroad Commission of Texas; providing for the imposition of fees.
Impact
The bill seeks to modernize the commission's operational structure and ensure its existence beyond the established sunset date of September 1, 2013, unless continued by further legislation. The changes proposed in HB2166 will require the commission to operate under the renewed name, which may also signal a strategic pivot to address issues more aligned with today's energy landscape, including renewable resources. Furthermore, the automatic resignation clause for commissioners who seek other elective offices is aimed at maintaining the integrity and focus of the commission’s leadership.
Summary
House Bill 2166 primarily focuses on the continuation and rebranding of the Railroad Commission of Texas as the Texas Energy Commission. Additionally, the bill outlines the imposition of fees related to the commission's regulatory functions. This change reflects a shift towards a more contemporary understanding of the commission's role, moving away from its historic association with railroads to a broader focus on energy regulation, including oil, gas, and alternative fuels, which are critical to Texas's economy.
Contention
One point of contention during the discussions around the bill may involve the imposition and structure of regulatory fees. While proponents argue that such fees are necessary to ensure effective safety oversight and environmental management, opponents might raise concerns about the financial burden on businesses already navigating a complex regulatory environment. Additionally, the transition to the Texas Energy Commission may lead to debates about accountability, transparency, and the effectiveness of regulatory actions in the energy sector.
Identical
Relating to the continuation, functions, and name of the Railroad Commission of Texas; providing for the imposition of fees and the elimination of a fee.
Relating to the authority of the Railroad Commission of Texas to require water pollution abatement plans for certain pipelines; providing for the imposition of a civil penalty.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the acceptance of political contributions by a member of the Railroad Commission of Texas and of political contributions made in connection with the office of railroad commissioner.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the continuation, functions, and name of the Railroad Commission of Texas; providing for the imposition of fees and the elimination of a fee.
Relating to the abolition of the Railroad Commission of Texas, the creation of the Texas Oil and Gas Commission, and the transfer of the powers and duties of the railroad commission to the oil and gas commission.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy and Communications Commission to consolidate the functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Railroad Commission of Texas.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy and Communications Commission to consolidate the functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Railroad Commission of Texas.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy and Communications Commission to consolidate the functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Railroad Commission of Texas.