BILL ANALYSIS
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Currently, law states that the log or confidentiality request must be filed with the completion report, or in the case of dry holes, with the plugging application. Delays in filing completion or plugging reports could subsequently result in delays in filing logs or confidentiality requests.
HB 484 ties the filing of logs or confidentiality request to within 90 days of completion of drilling operations. Operators who fail to timely file confidentiality requests or extensions of confidentiality must file the log when it is due.
HB 484 would better define the deadline for submission of logs to the RRC and clearly identify the operator as the person responsible for compliance.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 3: 91.552, Natural Resources Code.
Amends Section 91.552(a) requiring an operator to file with the Railroad Commission a copy of a basic electronic log run after September 1, 1985, in conjunction with the drilling or deepening of the well that meets basic criteria established by the commission, no later than the 90th day after the date a drilling operation is completed.
SECTION 4: Section 91.553, Natural Resources Code
Amends Section 91.553(f) requiring an operator who fails to timely file with the commission a written request under Subsection (b) that an electronic log remain confidential and not be made available as public information or a written request under Subsection (c) or (d) for an extension of the period of confidentiality to file the log with the commission immediately after the conclusion of the period for filing the request.
EFFECTIVE DATE
September 1, 2005