Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB942

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation and funding of the Railroad Commission of Texas operating account; providing a penalty.

Impact

The passage of SB942 impacts existing laws by delineating how penalties collected by the Railroad Commission will be allocated. Specifically, it mandates that fines collected from various violations will be directed to this new operational account, thereby ensuring that the commission has a dedicated revenue source to support its regulatory functions. This structural funding change is anticipated to improve the commission's efficacy in enforcing regulations and managing oversight across its various jurisdictions.

Summary

SB942 is a legislative measure aimed at creating and funding an operating account specifically for the Railroad Commission of Texas. The bill establishes the Railroad Commission of Texas operating account as an account in the general revenue fund, allowing funds collected from certain penalties and appropriations to be used solely for the commission's operational expenses. This change is designed to enhance the financial stability and operational efficiency of the Railroad Commission, which is vital for oversight in areas such as oil and gas production, railroads, and other utilities in Texas.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB942 appears to be generally supportive, especially among those in favor of strengthening the operational capacity of the Railroad Commission. Stakeholders involved in industries regulated by the commission, such as energy and utilities, view this bill positively for its potential to streamline operations. However, there may be concerns among some segments regarding the implications of centralized funding on regulatory oversight and execution.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB942 include discussions about how the commission’s operating account might influence its independence and regulatory actions. Critics may argue that relying heavily on penalties as a funding source could create a conflict of interest, where the commission is incentivized to impose stricter penalties to generate revenue. Furthermore, questions around the transparency and accountability of funds used from this operational account could be raised in future discussions as this legislation is implemented.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2941

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.

TX HB4788

Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

TX SB1701

Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

TX HB37

Relating to the creation of the Texas Commission on Assessment and Accountability.

TX HB977

Relating to the creation of a Texas Commission on Assessment and Accountability.

TX HB4786

Relating to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Railroad Commission of Texas; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1186

Relating to the regulation by the Railroad Commission of Texas of brine mining.

TX HB3840

Relating to the extension of the deadline for plugging certain inactive wells under the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

TX HB4278

Relating to the establishment by the Railroad Commission of Texas of the orphaned well Bitcoin mining partnership program.

TX HB4787

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.

Similar Bills

UT SB0235

Railroad Amendments

UT HB0063

Office of Rail Safety

TX SB1135

Relating to regulation of gas pipelines; providing penalties.

TX HB1968

Relating to regulation of gas pipelines; providing penalties.

CA SB544

Railroad crossings: permit applications: review.

WV HB3265

Relating to fiber optic broadband lines crossing railroads

NJ A216

Requires installation of safety gates, lights, and other safety upgrades at certain railroad crossings.

TX HB2256

Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the rates and services of certain gas utilities, propane distribution system retailers, and submetering from the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Public Utility Commission of Texas.