Bill > SB494

This bill establishes a Theft of Petroleum Products Task Force under the Texas Railroad Commission to study and recommend strategies for preventing petroleum product theft. The task force will include representatives from the oil and gas industry, energy trade associations, and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. They are required to meet at least quarterly and conduct an ongoing study that involves reviewing laws and regulations from other jurisdictions, analyzing the economic impacts of petroleum product theft, and examining strategies to reduce such theft. The task force will specifically investigate how petroleum product theft affects sales tax collection and the broader economy, and will develop recommendations for outreach, prevention programs, and training for law enforcement officers and prosecutors. Every two years, the task force must submit a comprehensive report to state leadership, including the governor and legislative committees, with recommendations to improve transparency, security, and consumer protections. The task force is set to operate until December 31, 2030, with the bill taking effect on September 1, 2025. In this context, "theft of petroleum products" refers to criminal conduct as defined under Section 31.19 of the Texas Penal Code.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB494