Bill > SB1146

This bill amends the Texas Natural Resources Code to provide new provisions for plugging or replugging orphaned wells (abandoned oil and gas wells) by expanding who can participate in well plugging efforts. The bill allows operators in good standing, mineral estate owners, or surface estate owners to contract with commission-approved well pluggers to plug or replug orphaned wells, with several important protections and conditions. The well plugger must provide 30-day advance notice to the well's operator or surface owner and follow Railroad Commission rules. Importantly, the person contracting for the well plugging does not assume legal responsibility for the well's operation or potential damages, and their payment or contract cannot be used as evidence of legal obligation to plug the well in future legal proceedings. The Railroad Commission retains oversight, may require supervision of the plugging operation, and must approve the final plugging work. The bill also modifies existing liability protections to include private persons who have paid the commission to plug a well. The provisions do not apply to surface owners who originally abandoned the well, and the Railroad Commission is required to develop implementing rules. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146