AIPG-TX

Henry Wise, P.G., C.P.G., President of the AIPG Texas Section, has announced that AIPG-TX’s GeoDayz 2025 will be held in Stephenville, Texas beginning with a Meet-and-Greet-and-Register gathering on Friday evening of April 25th. The technical program will then be presented on Saturday, April 26th. He and Michael D. Campbell, P.G., P.H., C.P.G., Vice-President, AIPG-TX, and Roger W. Lee, Ph.D., P.G., Member of the AIPG Texas Section Board of Directors will be present to discuss the value of AIPG memberships and of the various training programs, webinars, fields trips, and scholorships.

To register for the GeoDayz 2025 training session, use the above code with your cell-phone to receive information on the training program of GeoDayz 2025 . The training program is specifically designed for students and young professionals.

GeoDayz 2025 will be hosted this year by Hughbert Collier, Ph.D., P.G., C.P.G., and Member of the AIPG Texas Section Board of Directors, and his colleagues at Collier Consulting, Inc. in Stephenville, Texas.

The cost is $50.00 for students, and $75.00 for young professionals (Post-Graduates, with or without employment). This is to be paid on Saturday AM. Checks or cash only. We do not use credit card services because that costs the Section $.

The mixer on Friday night before the lectures and demostrations on Saturday will be optional for students at no cost. The mixer will be held at the Middle Trinity Groundwater Conservation District offices. They will give brief educational overviews, and we will provide small snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

Saturday AM at the officies of Collier Consultingg, Inc.
Payments will be accepted here (Cash or Checks).

The Interactive Demonstrations will be held first covering:

• Well Logging Overview
• Drone Demonstrations
• GPR Demonstrations
• X Section on the Bosque

The Program Lecture Titles: 

• Petroleum Geology and Working for a Major Company
• Geochemistry and Teaching as a Career
• Hydrogeology Consulting as a Career
• Overview of Geophysics Uses

Be sure to let us know that you are planning to attend by using the QR Code.

Note: March 6, 2025: Here is updated information (more).

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.

March 23, 2025

The Texas Legislature is back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 49, by Darby, Companion bills: HB 3156 (Duplicate) and SB 1399 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste.  Scheduled for public hearing on 3/24/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB49.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/27/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Companion bill SB 1061 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  3/12/2025 Reported favorably without amendment(s).  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/28/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veteran’s Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  2/28/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  3/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  3/4/2025 Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulaton.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulaton.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Leo Wilson, Coauthers:  Barry,  ecil Bell, Buckley, Bumgarner, Cain, Cunningham, DeAyala, Frank, Gates, Guillen Hayes, Hull Janie Lopez, McLaughlin, Morgan, Oliverson, Orr, & Vasut, Companion bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  3/19/2025 Left pending in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by the University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  3/7/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  3/7/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  3/10/2025 Referred to Envornmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  3/19/2025 Left pending in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Companion bill SB 2350 (Identical), Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  3/10/2025 Referred to Envornmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  3/19/2025 Reported favorably without amendement(s).  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  3/11/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  3/11/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  3/12/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  3/12/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veteran’s Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  3/12/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion bill SB 624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  Scheduledfor public hearing on 3/26/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  3/12/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commission shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  3/14/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Troxclair, Schatzline, Coauthors:  Leo Wilson, Lowe, Money, Pierson, Richardson, Shofnet, Swanson, Toth, & Vasut, Companion bill SB 1717 (Similar), Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  3/14/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. 3/14/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. 3/14/2025 Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” 3/17/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Scheduled for public hearing on 3/24/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2612, by Zwiener, Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council. 3/18/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2612.

HB 2719, by Anchia, Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Changes the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Oil , Gas, and Minerals Commission.  Also sets up the commission with three elected commissioners. 3/18/2025 Referred to Energy Resources. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2719.

HB 2762, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1258 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land. The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  3/19/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2762.

HB 2765, by Guillen, Relating to the Rural Economic Development and Investment Program and the Texas economic development fund. Available funds may be used to attract new private enterprises to the county or municipality, including mineral extraction activities. Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2765.

HB 2766, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1150 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 3/19/2025 Referred to Energy Resources, For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2766.

HB 3038, by Dutton, Relating to the notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. 3/20/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3038.

HB 3039, by Dutton, Relating to the definition of “affected person” for purposes of a contested case hearing held by or for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding certain environmental permit applications. For the purpose of an administrative hearing held by or for the commission involving a contested case regarding a permit application referred under Section 5.556 or 5.557, the state senator and representative who represent the area in which the facility to which the application relates is located or proposed to be located are considered affected persons.” 3/20/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3039.

HB 3156, by Darby, Companion bills HB 49 (Duplicate) and SB 1399 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. 3/20/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3156.

HB 3240, by Guerra, Relating to the establishment of the Texas geothermal energy production policy council.  3/20/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3240.

HB 3506, by Dyson, Companion bill SB1147 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact.  Filed 2/28/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3506.

HB 3634, by Metcalf, Companion bill SB 1410 (Identical), Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.  Filed 3/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3634.

HB 3677, by Tepper, Companion bill SB 716 (Identical), Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. Tthe Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licenses in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  Filed 3/4/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3677.

HB 3728, Morales Shaw, Relating to the adoption by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of salinity requirements for bays and estuaries.  Filed 3/4/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3728.

HB 3768, by Hernandez, Relating to public hearings held by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in areas that exceed an ambient air quality standard for benzene.  Filed 3/4/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3768.

HB 3899, by Paul, Companion bill SB 495 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Filed 3/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3899.

HB 3911, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1146 (Identical), Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas.  Filed 3/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3911.

HB 3971, by Pierson, Relating to renaming the Sunset Advisory Commission the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and to the duties of that department.  Only the name will be changed.  Filed 3/6/2025.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3971.

HB 4981, by Luther, Relating to renaming the Sunset Advisory Commission the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and to the duties of that department.  Only the name will be changed.  Filed 3/13/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4981.

HB 5207, by Guillen,  Companion bill SB 1663 (Identical),  Relating to notification procedures concerning groundwater contamination.  Filed 3/14/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5207.

HB 5325, by Isaac, Companion bill SB 18556 (Identical), Relating to requirements that certain plats for the subdivision of land include evidence of groundwater supply. Filed 3/14/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5325.

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  3/3/2025 Frferred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  3/17/2025 Left pending in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Coauthers Creighton, Hall, & Middleton, Companion bill HB 3899 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  3/20/2025 House received from the Senate.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Coauther: Eckhardt, Companion bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  3/13/2025 House received from the Senate.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Coauthor Middleton, Companion bill HB 3677 (Identical), Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. The Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licensees in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Coauthors: Eckhardt & Flores, Companion bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

 

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/13/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. 3/12/2025 Vote taken in committee. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Coauthors: Blanco & Eckhardt, Companion bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. 3/13/2025 Received from the Senate, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3911 (Identical), Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 3/19/2025 Vote taken in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3506 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. 3/19/2025 Left pending in committee.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Companiou bill HG 2766 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 3/12/2025 Left pending in committee. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150.

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. 3/19/2025 Left pending in committee.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172.

SB 1258, by Nichols and Kokhorst, Companion bill HB 2762 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.  The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  2/28/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1258.

SB 1399, by Perry, Companion bills HB 49 (Duplicate) and HB 3156 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. 3/6/2025 Referred to Natureal Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1399.

SB 1410, by Campbell, Companion bill HB 3634 (Identical), Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1410.

SB 1535, by Zaffirini and Parker, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program. Shouldn’t uranium exploration and mining be included?  What good is nuclear power without fuel? 3/17/2025 Left pending in committee. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1535.

SB 1631, by Bampbell, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program.  3/11/2025 Referred to Economic Development.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1631.

SB 1663, by Zaffirini, Companion bill HB 5207 (Identical), Relating to notification procedures concerning groundwater contamination.  When the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) received notice that a wather well is contaminated, the TCEQ has 30 days to notify each owner of a private drinking water well that may be afffected by the contamination, each applicable groundwater conservation district, and the residents of each residential address within one mile of the site of the contamination.  3/11/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural AffaIrs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1663.

SB 1717, by Middleton, Companion bill HB 2246 (Similar), Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.   3/13/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1717.

SB 1855, by Perry, Companion bill HB 5325 (Identical), Relating to requirements that certain plats for the subdivision of land include evidence of groundwater supply.  3/17/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1855.

SB 1954, by Campbell, Relating to the authority of a county to regulate land use in certain areas in and around hydrologically sensitive areas.  3/17/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1954.

SB 2350, by Reynolds, Companion bill HB1341 (Identical), Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 3/12/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2350.

SB 2635, by Johnson, Companion bill HB 2719 (Identical), Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas.  Filed 3/13/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2635

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

3/23/2025

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The Wise Report,
Henry M. Wise, P.G.

March 15, 2025

The Texas Legislature is back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/27/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Companion bill SB 1061 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  3/12/2025 Reported favorably without amendment(s).  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/28/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veteran’s Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  2/28/2025 Reerred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  3/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  3/4/2025 Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulaton.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulaton.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Companion bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Scheduled for public hearing on 3/19/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by the University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  3/7/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  3/7/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  3/10/2025 Referred to Envornmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Scheduled for public hearing on 3/19/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Companion bill SB 2350 (Identical), Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  3/10/2025 Referred to Envornmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Scheduled for public hearing on 3/19/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  3/11/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  3/11/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  3/12/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  3/12/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veteran’s Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  3/12/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion bill SB 624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  3/12/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  3/12/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commission shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  3/14/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Companion bill SB 1717 (Similar), Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  3/14/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. 3/14/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. 3/14/2025 Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” Filed 2/5/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Filed 2/7/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2612, by Zwiener, Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council. Filed 2/10/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2612.

HB 2719, by Anchia, Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Changes the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Oil , Gas, and Minerals Commission.  Also sets up the commission with three elected commissioners. Filed 2/12/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2719.

HB 2762, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1258 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land. The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2762.

HB 2765, by Guillen, Relating to the Rural Economic Development and Investment Program and the Texas economic development fund. Available funds may be used to attract new private enterprises to the county or municipality, including mineral extraction activities. Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2765.

HB 2766, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1150 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/13/2025, For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2766.

HB 3038, by Dutton, Relating to the notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Filed 2/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3038.

HB 3039, by Dutton, Relating to the definition of “affected person” for purposes of a contested case hearing held by or for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding certain environmental permit applications. For the purpose of an administrative hearing held by or for the commission involving a contested case regarding a permit application referred under Section 5.556 or 5.557, the state senator and representative who represent the area in which the facility to which the application relates is located or proposed to be located are considered affected persons.” Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3039.

HB 3156, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1399 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. Filed 2/21/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3156.

HB 3240, by Guerra, Relating to the establishment of the Texas geothermal energy production policy council.  Filed 2/24/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3240.

HB 3506, by Dyson, Companion bill SB1147 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact.  Filed 2/28/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3506.

HB 3634, by Metcalf, Companion bill SB 1410 (Identical), Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.  Filed 3/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3634.

HB 3677, by Tepper, Companion bill SB 716 (Identical), Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. Tthe Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licenses in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  Filed 3/4/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3677.

HB 3728, Morales Shaw, Relating to the adoption by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of salinity requirements for bays and estuaries.  Filed 3/4/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3728.

HB 3768, by Hernandez, Relating to public hearings held by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in areas that exceed an ambient air quality standard for benzene.  Filed 3/4/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3768.

HB 3899, by Paul, Companion bill SB 495 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Filed 3/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3899.

HB 3911, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1146 (Identical), Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas.  Filed 3/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3911.

HB 3971, by Pierson, Relating to renaming the Sunset Advisory Commission the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and to the duties of that department.  Only the name will be changed.  Filed 3/6/2025.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3971.

HB 4981, by Luther, Relating to renaming the Sunset Advisory Commission the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and to the duties of that department.  Only the name will be changed.  Filed 3/13/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4981.

HB 5207, by Guillen,  Companion bill SB 1663 (Identical),  Relating to notification procedures concerning groundwater contamination.  Filed 3/14/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5207.

 

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  3/3/2025 Frferred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Scheduled for public hearing on 3/17/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Companion bill HB 3899 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  3/12/2025 Not again placed on intent calendar.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  23/13/2025 Received from the Senate.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Companion bill HB 3677 (Identical), Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. The Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licensees in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/13/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. 3/12/2025 Vote taken in committee. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Companion bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. 3/13/2025 Received from the Senate, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3911 (Identical), Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 3/12/2025 Left pending in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3506 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. Scheduled for public hearing on 3/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Companiou bill HG 2766 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 3/12/2025 Left pending in committee. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150.

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. 3/11/2025 Left pending in committee.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172.

SB 1258, by Nichols and Kokhorst, Companion bill HB 2762 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.  The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  2/28/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1258.

SB 1399, by Perry, Companion bill HB 3156 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. 3/6/2025 Referred to Natureal Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1399.

SB 1410, by Campbell, Companion bill HB 3634 (Identical), Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1410.

SB 1535, by Zaffirini and Parker, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program. Shouldn’t uranium exploration and mining be included?  What good is nuclear power without fuel? Scheduled for public hearing on 3/17/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1535.

SB 1631, by Bampbell, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program.  3/11/2025 Referred to Economic Development.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1631.

SB 1663, by Zaffirini, Relating to notification procedures concerning groundwater contamination.  When the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) received notice that a wather well is contaminated, the TCEQ has 30 days to notify each owner of a private drinking water well that may be afffected by the contamination, each applicable groundwater conservation district, and the residents of each residential address within one mile of the site of the contamination.  3/11/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural AffaIrs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1663.

SB 1717, by Middleton, Companion bill HB 2246 (Similar), Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.   3/13/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1717.

SB 1855, by Perry, Relating to requirements that certain plats for the subdivision of land include evidence of groundwater supply..  Filed 3/4/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1855.

SB 1954, by Campbell, Relating to the authority of a county to regulate land use in certain areas in and around hydrologically sensitive areas.  Filed 3/5/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1954.

SB 2350, by Reynolds, Companion bill HB1341 (Identical), Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 3/12/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2350.

SB 2635, by Johnson, Companion bill HB 2719 (Identical), Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas.  Filed 3/13/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2635

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

3/15/2025

_______________________________________

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.

March 9, 2025

The Texas Legislature is back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/27/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Companion bill SB 1061 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Scheduled for public hearing on 3/12/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/28/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veteran’s Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  2/28/2025 Reerred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  3/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  3/4/2025 Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulaton.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  3/5/2025 Referred to Environmental Regulaton.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Companion Bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  3/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by the University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  3/7/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  3/7/2025 Referred to Energy Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion Bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion Bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commision shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  Filed 1/9/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Companion bill SB 1717 (Similar), Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  Filed 1/29/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. Filed 2/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” Filed 2/5/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Filed 2/7/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2612, by Zwiener, Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council. Filed 2/10/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2612.

HB 2719, by Anchia, Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Changes the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Oil , Gas, and Minerals Commission.  Also sets up the commission with three elected commissioners. Filed 2/12/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2719.

HB 2762, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1258 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land. The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2762.

HB 2765, by Guillen, Relating to the Rural Economic Development and Investment Program and the Texas economic development fund. Available funds may be used to attract new private enterprises to the county or municipality, including mineral extraction activities. Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2765.

HB 2766, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1150 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/13/2025, For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2766.

HB 3038, by Dutton, Relating to the notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Filed 2/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3038.

HB 3039, by Dutton, Relating to the definition of “affected person” for purposes of a contested case hearing held by or for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding certain environmental permit applications. For the purpose of an administrative hearing held by or for the commission involving a contested case regarding a permit application referred under Section 5.556 or 5.557, the state senator and representative who represent the area in which the facility to which the application relates is located or proposed to be located are considered affected persons.” Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3039.

HB 3156, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1399 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. Filed 2/21/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3156.

HB 3240, by Guerra, Relating to the establishment of the Texas geothermal energy production policy council.  Filed 2/24/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3240.

HB 3506, by Dyson, Companion bill SB1147 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact.  Filed 2/28/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3506.

HB 3634, by Metcalf, Companion bill SB 1410 (Identical), Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.  Filed 3/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3634.

HB 3677, by Tepper, Companion bill SB 716 (Identical), Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar licence to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. Tthe Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licenses in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  Filed 3/4/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3677.

HB 3728, Morales Shaw, Relating to the adoption by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of salinity requirements for bays and estuaries.  Filed 3/4/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3728.

HB 3768, by Hernandez, Relating to public hearings held by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in areas that exceed an ambient air quality standard for benzene.  Filed 3/4/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3768.

HB 3899, by Paul, Companion bill SB 495 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Filed 3/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3899.

HB 3911, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1146 (Identical), Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas.  Filed 3/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3911.

HB 3971, by Pierson, Relating to renaming the Sunset Advisory Commission the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and to the duties of that department.  Only the name will be changed.  Filed 3/6/2025.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3971.

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  3/3/2025 Frferred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Filed 1/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Companion bill HB 3899 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  3/6/2025 Placed on intent calendar.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  2/25/2025 Committee report printed and distributed.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Companion bill HB 3677 (Identical), Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. The Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licensees in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion Bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion Bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/13/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion Bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion Bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. Scheduled for public hearing 3/12/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Companion Bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. 3/5/2023 Committee report printed and distributed, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3911 (Identical), Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Scheduled for public hearing 3/12/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3506 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Companiou bill HG 2766 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Scheduled for public hearing on 3/12/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150.

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Scheduled for public hearing on 3/11/2025.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172.

SB 1258, by Nichols and Kokhorst, Companion bill HB 2762 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.  The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  2/28/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1258.

SB 1399, by Perry, Companion bill HB 3156 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. 3/6/2025 Referred to Natureal Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1399.

SB 1410, by Campbell, Companion bill HB 3634 (Identical), Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1410.

SB 1535, by Zaffirini and Parker, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program. Shouldn’t uranium exploration and mining be included?  What good is nuclear power without fuel? 3/6/2025 Referred to Economic Development. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1535.

SB 1631, by Bampbell, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program.  Filed 2/25/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1631.

SB 1663, by Zaffirini, Relating to notification procedures concerning groundwater contamination.  When the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) received notice that a wather well is contaminated, the TCEQ has 30 days to notify each owner of a private drinking water well that may be afffected by the contamination, each applicable groundwater conservation district, and the residents of each residential address within one mile of the site of the contamination.  Filed 2/25/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1663.

SB 1717, by Middleton, Companion bill HB 2246 (Similar), Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.   Filed 2/27/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1717.

SB 1855, by Perry, Relating to requirements that certain plats for the subdivision of land include evidence of groundwater supply..  Filed 3/4/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1855.

SB 1954, by Campbell, Relating to the authority of a county to regulate land use in certain areas in and around hydrologically sensitive areas.  Filed 3/5/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1954.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report

3/9/2025

_______________________________________________________

 

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G., C.P.G.

March 1, 2025 

The Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) Tier 1 Protective Concentration Levels (PCLs) have been updated.  Changes include:

• Dioxins/furans, polychlorinated; (reported as 2,3,7,8-TCDD TEQ): RfD and PCLs revised
• Perfluorododecanoic acid (Dodecanoic acid, tricosafluoro-) [PFDoA] and Perfluorotridecanoic acid (Tridecanoic acid, pentacosafluoro-) [PFTrDA]: PCLs revised due to increased rounding accuracy.
• Carbon tetrachloride: URF and RfC revised
• Tert-butyl alcohol (2-methyl-2-propanol): RfDo revised and RfC added
• Beryllium: RfC revised
• Nitrobenzene: RfC revised
• RFDo value for 1-propanol was corrected to 2 mg/kg-day on the Toxicity Factors table to reflect the value used in RBEL calculations

For more information go to: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/remediation/trrp/trrppcls.html.

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The Texas Legislature is back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/27/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Companion bill SB 1061 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  2/27/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  2/28/2025 Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veteran’s Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  2/28/2025 Reerred to Environmental Regulation.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Companion Bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion Bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion Bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill  SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commision shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  Filed 1/9/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  Filed 1/29/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. Filed 2/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion Bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” Filed 2/5/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion Bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Filed 2/7/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2612, by Zwiener, Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council. Filed 2/10/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2612.

HB 2719, by Anchia, Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Changes the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Oil , Gas, and Minerals Commission.  Also sets up the commission with three elected commissioners. Filed 2/12/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2719.

HB 2762, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1258 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land. The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2762.

HB 2765, by Guillen, Relating to the Rural Economic Development and Investment Program and the Texas economic development fund. Available funds may be used to attract new private enterprises to the county or municipality, including mineral extraction activities. Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2765.

HB 2766, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1150 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/13/2025, For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2766.

HB 3038, by Dutton, Relating to the notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Filed 2/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3038.

HB 3039, by Dutton, Relating to the definition of “affected person” for purposes of a contested case hearing held by or for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding certain environmental permit applications. For the purpose of an administrative hearing held by or for the commission involving a contested case regarding a permit application referred under Section 5.556 or 5.557, the state senator and representative who represent the area in which the facility to which the application relates is located or proposed to be located are considered affected persons.” Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3039.

HB 3156, by Darby, Companion bill SB 1399 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. Filed 2/21/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3156.

HB 3240, by Guerra, Relating to the establishment of the Texas geothermal energy production policy council.  Filed 2/24/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3240.

HB 3506, by Dyson, Companion bill SB1147 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact.  Filed 2/28/2025.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3506.

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Filed 1/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  2/27/2025 Vote taken in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  2/25/2025 Committee report printed and distributed.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. The Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licensees in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion Bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion Bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/13/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion Bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion Bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Companion Bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. Scheduled for public hearing on 3/5/2025, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Companion bill HB 3506 (Identical), Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Companiou bill HG 2766 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 2/24/2025 Referred to Natural Resources. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150.

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/7/2025.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172.

SB 1258, by Nichols and Kokhorst, Companion bill HB 2762 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.  The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  2/28/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1258.

SB 1399, by Perry, Companion bill HB 3156 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. Filed 2/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1399.

SB 1410, by Campbell, Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1410.

SB 1535, by Zaffirini and Parker, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program. Shouldn’t uranium exploration and mining be included?  What good is nuclear power without fuel? Filed 2/21/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1535.

SB 1631, by Bampbell, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program.  Filed 2/25/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1631.

SB 1663, by Zaffirini, Relating to notification procedures concerning groundwater contamination.  When the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) received notice that a wather well is contaminated, the TCEQ has 30 days to notify each owner of a private drinking water well that may be afffected by the contamination, each applicable groundwater conservation district, and the residents of each residential address within one mile of the site of the contamination.  Filed 2/25/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1663.

SB 1717, by Middleton, Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.   Filed 2/27/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1717. 

Henry M. Wise, P.G., C.P.G.
The Wise Report

3/1/2025

____________________________________________

The Wise Report,
Henry M. Wise, P.G., C.P.G.

February 22, 2025 

The Texas Legislature is back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Companion Bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion Bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion Bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill  SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commision shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  Filed 1/9/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  Filed 1/29/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. Filed 2/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion Bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” Filed 2/5/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion Bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Filed 2/7/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2612, by Zwiener, Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council. Filed 2/10/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2612.

HB 2719, by Anchia, Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Changes the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Oil , Gas, and Minerals Commission.  Also sets up the commission with three elected commissioners. Filed 2/12/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2719.

HB 2762, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1258 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land. The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2762.

HB 2765, by Guillen, Relating to the Rural Economic Development and Investment Program and the Texas economic development fund. Available funds may be used to attract new private enterprises to the county or municipality, including mineral extraction activities. Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2765.

HB 2766, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1150 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/13/2025, For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2766.

HB 3038, by Dutton, Relating to the notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Filed 2/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3038.

HB 3039, by Dutton, Relating to the definition of “affected person” for purposes of a contested case hearing held by or for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding certain environmental permit applications. For the purpose of an administrative hearing held by or for the commission involving a contested case regarding a permit application referred under Section 5.556 or 5.557, the state senator and representative who represent the area in which the facility to which the application relates is located or proposed to be located are considered affected persons.” Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3039.

HB 3156 by Darby, Companion bill SB 1399 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. Filed 2/21/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3156.

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Filed 1/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.   2/18/2025 Left pending in committee.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Scheduled for public hearing on 2/24/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar license to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. The Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licensees in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion Bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion Bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/13/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion Bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion Bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Companion Bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. Filed 2/6/2025, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/6/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. Filed 2/6/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Companiou bill HG 2766 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/6/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150.

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/7/2025.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172.

SB 1258, by Nichols and Kokhorst, Companion bill HB 2762 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.  The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/13/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1258.

SB 1399, by Perry, Companion bill HB 3156 (Identical), Relating to fluid oil and gas waste and products and byproducts of that waste. Filed 2/19/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1399.

SB 1410, by Campbell, Relating to renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Filed 2/19/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1410.

SB 1535, by Zaffirini and Parker, Relating to the establishment by the Texas Workforce Commission of an advanced nuclear energy workforce development program. Shouldn’t uranium exploration and mining be included?  What good is nuclear power without fuel? Filed 2/21/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1535.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report

2/22/2025

———————————————————————————————

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.

February 15, 2025 

The Texas Legislature is back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Companion Bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion Bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion Bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill  SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commision shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  Filed 1/9/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  Filed 1/29/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. Filed 2/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion Bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” Filed 2/5/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion Bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Filed 2/7/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HB 2612, by Zwiener, Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council. Filed 2/10/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2612.

HB 2719, by Anchia, Relating to the name and governance of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Changes the name of the Railroad Commission of Texas to the Texas Oil , Gas, and Minerals Commission.  Also sets up the commission with three elected commissioners. Filed 2/12/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2719.

HB 2762, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1258 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land. The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2762.

HB 2765, by Guillen, Relating to the Rural Economic Development and Investment Program and the Texas economic development fund. Available funds may be used to attract new private enterprises to the county or municipality, including mineral extraction activities. Filed 2/12/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2765.

HB 2766, by Geren, Companion bill SB 1150 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. 2/13/2025, For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2766.

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HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Filed 1/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

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SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Scheduled for public hearing on 2/18/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar licence to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. Tthe Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licences in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion Bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion Bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/13/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion Bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion Bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Companion Bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. Filed 2/6/2025, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/6/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. Filed 2/6/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Companiou bill HG 2766 (Identical), Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/6/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150.

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/7/2025.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172.

SB 1258, by Nichols and Kokhorst, Companion bill HG 2762 (Identical), Relating to the ownership of the pore space underlying the surface of land.  The bill states that the pore space in a formation is owned by the surface owner.  Filed 2/13/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1258.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

2/15/2025

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The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.,C.P.G.
February 8, 2025 

The Texas Legislature will be back in session through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Companion Bill SB795 (Identical), Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Companion Bill SB 1060 (Identical). Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion Bill SB 718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill  SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commision shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  Filed 1/9/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HB 2246, by Cain, Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to the partially landlocked body of water on the southeastern periphery of the North American continent.  All Texas agencies, etc, shall refer to “Gulf of Mexico” as “Gulf of America”.  Filed 1/29/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2246

HB 2347, by Zwiener, Relating to the adoption of a water conservation program by certain counties. Filed 2/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2347.

HB 2349, by Darby, Companion Bill SB 1172 (Identical). Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2349

HB 2445, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. “The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million.” Filed 2/5/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2445

HB 2584, by Landgraf, Companion Bill SB 1145 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. “The commission may issue permits for the land application of produced water resulting from activities described by Subsection (a) that has been treated for beneficial use. The commission shall adopt standards for the land application of water under this section, including standards that prevent the pollution of surface and subsurface water.” Filed 2/7/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2584

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Filed 1/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.   2/3/2025 Referred to State Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  2/3/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  2/3/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment. 2/3/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar licence to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. Tthe Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licences in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  2/7/2025 Referred to Business & Commerce.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion Bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  2/7/2025 Referred to Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

SB 795, by Alvarado, Companion Bill HB1089 (Identical), Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  2/7/2025 Referred to Natural Resources.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB795.

SB 976, by Eckhardt, Relating to the establishment of an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction.  Filed 1/29/2025.  For More information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB976.

SB 1060, by Parker, Companion Bill HB1238 (Identical), Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1060.

SB 1061, by Parker, Companion Bill HB 279 (Identical), Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations. Filed 2/3/2025. For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1061.

SB 1145, by Birdwell and Sparks, Companion Bill HB 2584 (Identical), Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the land application of water produced from certain mining and oil and gas extraction operations. Filed 2/6/2025, For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1145.

SB 1146, by Birdwell, Relating to the plugging or replugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/6/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1146.

SB 1147, by Birdwell, Relating to the withdrawal of the State of Texas from the Interstate Mining Compact. Filed 2/6/2025.  For more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1147.

SB 1150, by Middleton, Relating to the plugging of certain inactive wells subject to the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. Filed 2/6/2025. For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1150

SB 1172, by Perry, Companion Bill HB 2349 (Identical), Relating to exempting certain transactions from regulation by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Filed 2/7/2025.  Fore more information go to: https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1172

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

2/8/2025

 

The Wise Report (UPDATE)
Henry M. Wise, P.G., C.P.G.

January 11, 2025 

The Texas Legislature will be back in session January 14, 2025 through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 191, by Spiller, Companion bill HB 1566 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB191.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 402, by Cain, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB402 .

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Companion Bill SB718 (Identical). Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400.

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523.

HB 1566, by Paterson, Companion bill HB 191 (Duplicate), Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1566.

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618.

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill  SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633.

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HB 1808, by Landgraf, Relating to the regulation and management of produced water from oil and gas operations.  To prevent pollution of surface water or subsurface water in the state, the Texas Railroad Commision shall adopt and enforce rules and orders and may issue permits relating to the recycling and beneficial use of produced water associated with oil and gas operations.  Filed 1/9/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1808.

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

HJR 107, by Landraf, Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in the exploration for and production and export of oil, gas, and other minerals.  Filed 1/3/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR107.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

SB 307, by Kolkhorst, Bettencourt, Hall, Middleton, Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.  Sales of properties or minerals in place to countries identified by the US Director of National Intelligence as on that poses a risk to US national security are prohibited.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB307.

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Filed 11/22/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495.

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561.

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  Texas Legislature Online – 89(R) History for SB 624.

SB 716, by Sparks, Relating to the issuance of an occupational license to certain out-of-state applicants.  If an individual in another state holds a similar licence to one required in the State of Texas, the Texas Board  must issue a license to them if they pay the required fee.  This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree. Tthe Texas Board of Geoscientists is not one of the listed licences in this bill, but the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors are.  The TBPG could be listed if the bill is ever amended.  Filed 1/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB716.

SB 718, by Kolkhorst and Johnson, Companion Bill HB 1400 (Identical),  Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 1/6/2025.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB718.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

1/11/2025

______________________________________________

December 21, 2024

The Texas Legislature will be back in session January 14, 2025 through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866

HB 1089, by Paul, Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Companions.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618

HB 1633, by Gerdes, Companion Bill  SB624 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1633. 

HB 1682, by Morales Shaw, Relating to the disposition and use of the state’s portion of civil penalties recovered in suits brought by local governments for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1682.

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Filed 11/22/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616.

SB 624, by Kolkhorst, Companion Bill HB 1633 (Identical), Relating to the criteria considered by groundwater conservation districts before granting or denying a permit or permit amendment.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB624

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report
12/21/2024

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December 14, 2024

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) guidance document titled Determining Which Releases are Subject to TRRP has been revised. The revision:

• Adds a new option to calculate site-specific soil-to-groundwater ingestion PCLs for certain metals using site-specific soil pH.
• Eliminates the need for reporting when a site passes the ecological risk assessment Tier 1 Exclusion Criteria Checklist and target COC concentrations don’t exceed Tier 1 PCL-based or site-specific soil-to-groundwater ingestion action levels.
• Clarifies and emphasizes that site-specific background concentrations can be used as action levels.
• Updates the process flowchart to determine if a release is subject to TRRP or if reporting is necessary.
• Makes other minor updates for clarity.

The revised guidance dated December 6, 2024, replaces the version dated November 19, 2010, and is available at <https://www.tceq.texas.gov/downloads/remediation/trrp/releasestrrprev.pdf>

The Texas Legislature will be back in session January 14, 2025 through June 2, 2025.   As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866

HB 1089, by Paul, Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

HB 1400, by Harris, Relating to creation of the groundwater science, research, and innovation fund to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board.  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1400

HB 1412, by Allen, Relating to the location of certain public meetings for certain permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  “A public meeting requested under Subsection (a)(1)  shall be held in the house district in which the facility or  proposed facility is located or proposed to be located.”  Filed 11/19/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1412.

HB 1438, by Zwiener, Relating to climate change planning and reporting.  “Not later than June 1, 2026, and before the end of each successive four-year period after that date, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the office of the state climatologist shall prepare a report on the potential impact of climate change in this state.”  Filed 11/21/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1438.

HB 1523, by Gerdes, Relating to a prohibition on the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the use of a Class V injection well for certain aquifer storage and recovery projects.  Class V injection wells includes those wells used in insitu uranium recovery.  Passage would eliminate the use of ISR in certain counties, esp. Goliad County.  Acceptance of this bill could easily be expanded to eliminate all ISR facilities in Texas.  Filed 12/5/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1523

HB 1618, by Harris Davila, Companion Bill SB 616 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Companions.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1618

HJR 27, by Goodwin, Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR27.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212

SB 495, by Sparks, Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Insurance to adopt rules that implement or are based on certain environmental, social, and governance models, ratings, or standards.  Filed 11/22/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB495

SB 561, by Eckhardt, Alvarado, Cook, Gutierrez, Miles, Relating to the creation of the Office of Environmental Justice within the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 12/10/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB561

SB 616, by Schwertner, Companion Bill HB 1618 (Identical), Relating to aquifer storage and recovery projects that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer.  “The commission (TCEQ) by rule or permit may authorize…an aquifer storage and recovery project that includes an ASR injection well, as defined under Section 27.151, that transects the Edwards Aquifer in the area of Williamson County east of Interstate Highway 35 for the injection of water into a geologic formation that underlies the Edwards Aquifer.”  Filed 12/13/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB616

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report
12/14/2024

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November 16, 2024

The Texas Legislature will be back in session January 14, 2025 through June 2, 2025.  On November 12, 2024 bills began to be filed.  I’m currently checking these bills and have found 14 of general interest to geologists in Texas.  Thanks to Kevin Coleman for letting me know about HB710, which may affect the Texas Professional Geoscientist license and Matthew Cowan for his input on the potential ramifications of the law if it gets passed.  As usual, I’ll be filing updates as new bills come in.  New information is in bold.

HB 279, by Guillen, Relating to procedural requirements for uranium mining production area authorizations.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB279.

HB 457, by Christina Morales, Relating to an alert system for notification of the release of toxic chemicals by a manufacturing facility.  “If the responsible state agency determines that a release will substantially endanger human health or the environment, the agency shall, not later than 30 minutes after making the determination, notify persons in the area in which the facility is located of the release using the alert system established under Subsection (d). When the agency determines a release is no longer a threat to human health or the environment, the agency shall notify persons using the alert system.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB457.

HB 553, by Patterson, Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB553.

HB 710, by Harrison, Relating to the recognition of occupational licenses and government certifications issued in other states; authorizing a fee.  Filed 11/12/2024.  Regardless of what the rules for a Board are, if an individual has a license in another state the Board must issue a license to them provided they meet the provisions of this particular statue. In addition, if a person does not have a license because their state does not require one, the Board must give them a license if they meet the Board’s requirements. This would eliminate reciprocity to a degree.  the Texas Board of Geoscientists does not have reciprocity with states that do not recognize our grandfathered licensees but other states would have their grandfathered individuals come in and practice.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB710.

HB 736, by Flores, Relating to certain procedures for civil suits brought by local governments or certain other persons for violations of certain laws under the jurisdiction of, or rules adopted or orders or permits issued by, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Amends current law.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB736.

HB 859, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB859.

HB 866, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB866.

HB 1089, by Paul, Relating to creation of the gulf coast protection account to be administered by the General Land Office.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1089.

HB 1145, by Morales Shaw, Relating to a study regarding the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals in hydraulic fracturing.  Report by thy University of Houston, in collaboration the the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality is to be submitted by December 1, 2026.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1145.

HB 1190, by Christina Hinojosa, Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.  “The board of regents of The University of Texas System shall adopt a formal policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring on university lands by 2027.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1190.

HB 1237, by Guillen, Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.  “A person whose license or registration has been expired for at least 90 days but not more than one year may apply for renewal of the license or registration by paying to the commission a renewal fee in an amount prescribed by commission rule not to exceed two times the normally required renewal fee.”  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1237.

HB 1238, by Guillen, Relating to the inspection of the location of a proposed Class I injection well.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1238.

HB 1341, by Reynolds, Relating to establishment of maximum allowable ground-level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Filed 11/14/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1341.

SB 212, by West, Relating to certain public meetings and public hearings concerning permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Mandates location of public meetings for permits.  Filed 11/12/2024.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/Authors.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB212.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report
11/16/2024