Texas House Bill HB2256

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/30/25

Caption

Relating to financial security requirements for operators of oil and gas wells.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2256 will specifically impact operators in the oil and gas industry by imposing stricter financial security regulations. These regulations will ensure that operators are financially responsible for the decommissioning of their wells, potentially reducing the risk of government or taxpayer liability in the event of abandoned or polluted sites. The bill introduces new rules regarding what constitutes acceptable forms of financial assurance and mandates regular updates to decommissioning cost estimates based on factors such as well depth and operational history. This could lead to an improvement in environmental protection efforts as operators are held accountable for the entire lifecycle of their wells.

Summary

House Bill 2256 proposes amendments to existing financial security requirements for operators of oil and gas wells in Texas. The primary aim of the bill is to enhance the financial assurance mechanisms available to ensure that operators can properly plug and remediate wells when they are no longer in production. This includes adjustments to the amounts required for bonds, letters of credit, or cash deposits that operators must maintain, reflecting the estimated costs of future decommissioning activities. The bill also details provisions for a sinking fund into which operators must contribute, aimed at covering the expenses associated with well plugging and site remediation.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns among operators regarding the increased financial burdens associated with the requirements outlined in HB 2256. Some industry stakeholders argue that the elevated cost of maintaining higher bonds and contributions to the sinking fund could disincentivize smaller operators from conducting business in Texas, thereby impacting the overall economic landscape of the oil and gas sector. Furthermore, details about how these increased costs will be calculated and the extent of reporting required could lead to a broader debate between regulatory bodies and industry representatives about striking a balance between environmental safety and economic viability.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Natural Resources Code

• Chapter 81. Railroad Commission Of Texas
  • Section: 067

• Chapter 89. Abandoned Wells
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 027
  • Section: 028

• Chapter 91. Provisions Generally Applicable
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1041