Bill > HB4612

This bill modifies the notification and testing requirements for operators conducting fluid level or hydraulic pressure tests on inactive wells under the jurisdiction of the Texas Railroad Commission. The bill requires operators to provide at least three days' notice before conducting such a test to three parties: the commission's oil and gas division district office, any groundwater conservation district within three miles of the well, and the surface estate owner of the land where the well is located. Additionally, operators must obtain approval from the commission's district office before conducting the test and allow representatives from the groundwater conservation district and surface estate owner to witness the test. If the test is unsuccessful, the operator must provide the test results to the groundwater conservation district and surface estate owner. The changes aim to increase transparency and communication between well operators, local authorities, and landowners regarding inactive well testing. The bill will apply only to fluid level or hydraulic pressure tests conducted on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4612