Bill > SB1320

This bill establishes the Organized Oilfield Theft Prevention Unit within the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), creating a specialized law enforcement team focused on preventing and investigating theft of oil and gas equipment and petroleum products. The unit will have statewide jurisdiction but will primarily operate in the region adjacent to the international border near El Paso, with potential additional regional offices. The unit's responsibilities include developing specialized training for local law enforcement, conducting public outreach to educate industry professionals and communities about oilfield theft, and maintaining a centralized database to track related criminal activities. The unit can investigate and make arrests for specific offenses involving oil and gas equipment theft under the Texas Penal Code, including theft of machinery, drilling equipment, vehicles, and other items used in oil and gas production. The bill requires the DPS director to create a command structure for the unit, adopt rules for its operation, and submit a biennial report to state leadership detailing the unit's activities, effectiveness, arrests, prosecutions, and recommendations for improvement. The act will take effect either immediately with a two-thirds legislative vote or on September 1, 2025, if immediate implementation is not approved.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1320