Texas House Bill HB642

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 12/19/16

Caption

Relating to the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would primarily impact the language and branding associated with the commission that regulates oil and gas industries, among other energy-related responsibilities. The rebranding is intended to more accurately encompass the broader scope of the commission's duties in modern regulatory frameworks, which extend beyond traditional railroad matters into diverse energy resources. The change aims to reflect Texas's commitment to energy development and regulation effectively.

Summary

House Bill 642 seeks to rename the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Energy Commission. The bill amends the Natural Resources Code, specifically Section 81.001, to reflect this change in nomenclature. This is a significant alteration as it represents a shift in how the state of Texas designates its regulatory body responsible for overseeing the state's energy sector. Through this legislation, the terms 'Railroad Commission' are replaced across various references with 'Texas Energy Commission', emphasizing a modern perspective on energy governance in the state.

Contention

While the text of the bill itself is straightforward and does not seem to provoke significant controversy, the broader implications of renaming a long-standing agency may lead to discussions regarding the future direction of energy policy in Texas. Some stakeholders might argue that a name change could signify a shift in focus toward renewable energies and contemporary energy challenges. The potential contention may arise over how this rebranding aligns with ongoing debates within the state about energy governance, environmental commitments, and economic priorities.