Bill > HB1174

This bill requires oil and gas well permit applicants in Texas to submit a comprehensive gas capture plan to the Railroad Commission before drilling a new well, with the goal of minimizing natural gas flaring. The plan must include detailed information such as anticipated gas, oil, and condensate production volumes; a map of existing and planned gas gathering systems in the area; specifics about the nearest gas gathering system (including its operator, pipeline route, transportation capacity, and reliability); plans for system expansion; potential connection challenges; and alternative options for gas utilization if direct pipeline connection is not immediately possible. These alternatives include on-site gas use, processing liquids, electric power generation, gas compression, underground or temporary storage, enhanced oil recovery, and well shutting. The bill aims to reduce wasteful gas flaring by requiring operators to thoroughly plan gas capture and utilization strategies before receiving a drilling permit. The new requirements will apply to permit applications filed on or after September 1, 2025, providing operators time to adapt to the new planning mandate.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1174