Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB569

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

Caption

Relating to a review and report by the Railroad Commission of Texas regarding the oversight and enforcement of unpermitted discharges of oil and gas waste or of other substances or materials associated with certain operations or activities regulated by the commission.

Impact

The implementation of SB569 is expected to reinforce environmental protections associated with oil and gas operations in Texas. By requiring a systematic approach to assess the current state's regulatory framework, the bill has the potential to identify gaps in enforcement and response mechanisms. Through its mandate for the Railroad Commission to propose legislative actions for improvement, the bill seeks to promote a more rigorous regulatory environment, which could lead to increased compliance rates and better public trust in environmental safeguarding measures.

Summary

SB569 aims to enhance the regulatory oversight of the Railroad Commission of Texas regarding unpermitted discharges of oil and gas waste and other related substances. The bill mandates a thorough review of existing rules and practices concerning the prevention and documentation of such discharges. The report generated from this review must also propose necessary changes to current regulations to improve enforcement effectiveness in this domain and ensure stronger accountability for responsible parties.

Contention

During discussions surrounding SB569, notable points of contention could arise around the balance between regulatory oversight and the oil and gas industry's operational capabilities. Stakeholders from the industry may argue that stringent regulations could hinder productivity and economic growth, expressing concerns over the potential financial burden related to compliance costs. Conversely, environmental advocacy groups are likely to support the bill as a vital measure to address the risks posed by unpermitted waste discharges, emphasizing the importance of protecting ecological integrity and public health.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1186

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

TX HB1386

Relating to a study conducted by the Railroad Commission of Texas regarding reported gas flaring.

TX HB4278

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

TX HB1241

Relating to publication by the Railroad Commission of Texas of certain information regarding natural gas flaring.

TX HB3884

Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.

TX HB1722

Relating to the establishment of the oil and gas infrastructure security division within the Railroad Commission of Texas.

TX HB33

Relating to the enforcement of certain federal laws regulating oil and gas operations within the State of Texas.

TX SB1210

Relating to the authority of the Railroad Commission of Texas to designate certain persons as the operator of an orphaned oil or gas well.

TX HB1459

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.

TX SB2130

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.