Relating to the plugging of and reporting on inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas; authorizing an administrative penalty.
What changed between versions
Added new Section 89.049 requiring the Railroad Commission to produce and deliver an annual report to the governor, lieutenant governor, and legislature by December 1 each year, including data on inactive wells, extensions granted, and compliance status.
Added new Section 89.050 requiring operators to submit annual reports for inactive wells 15 years after completion, including documentation of successful fluid level or hydraulic pressure tests.
Added new Section 89.051 establishing rulemaking authority for the commission to regulate and monitor inactive wells, with specific considerations for public safety, well integrity, and regional risk factors.
Added implementation deadlines: first annual report due December 1, 2026; rules must be adopted by December 31, 2026 and take effect September 1, 2027; most provisions take effect September 1, 2025.
Added Section 89.051(b) requiring the commission to consider public safety, wellbore integrity, and regional risk factors when adopting rules for inactive well regulation.
