BILL ANALYSIS



S.B. 393
By: Nixon (TORRES)
April 18, 1995
Committee Report (Unamended)


BACKGROUND

Facilities used in the liquification of liquified natural gas (LNG)
were regulated by the Railroad Commission of Texas until changes in
federal law removed the state's jurisdiction over these facilities. 
Any state regulation of these facilities would be considered
redundant since the federal regulations are fully comprehensive.


PURPOSE

S.B. 393 would amend the definition of "LNG system" in Section
116.001(7), Natural Resources Code, by eliminating reference to the
liquification of liquified natural gas.


RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or
agency.


SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 116.001(7), Natural Resources Code, by
removing facilities used           in the liquefaction of natural
gas from the definition of an "LNG system."

SECTION 2. Effective Date: September 1, 1995.

SECTION 3. Emergency Clause.


SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE ACTION

S.B. 393 was considered by the Energy Resources Committee in a
public hearing on April 18, 1995. Thomas D. Petru of the Railroad
Commission of Texas testified neutrally on the bill. The bill was
reported favorably without amendment, with the recommendation that
it do pass and be printed and be sent to the Committee on Local and
Consent Calendars, by a record vote of
6 ayes, 0 nays, 0 PNV, and 3 absent.