The bill would amend the Natural Resources Code to prohibit a state agency or state political subdivision from contracting with or in any other manner providing assistance to a federal agency or official with respect to enforcement of federal law purporting to regulate oil and gas operations if the law imposes a prohibition, restriction, or other regulation that does not exist under Texas law. The bill would prevent a political subdivision from receiving state grant funds if it violates this prohibition.
The bill would authorize any citizen residing in the political subdivision to file a complaint with the attorney general if the citizen offers certain evidence to support an allegation that the prohibition is being violated. The bill would authorize the attorney general to seek relief and provide that an appeal of a suit brought by the attorney general is governed by the procedures for accelerated appeals in civil cases under the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure.
Based on the analysis of the Office of Court Administration, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Railroad Commission, it is assumed that duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the bill could be accomplished utilizing existing resources. In addition, no significant fiscal impact to the state court system is anticipated with the implementation of the bill.
The bill would take effect immediately upon receiving two-thirds of a majority vote in both houses; otherwise, the bill would take effect September 1, 2021.
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.