HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

COMMITTEE:   Energy Resources 

TIME & DATE: 9:00 AM, Wednesday, April 18, 2018 

PLACE:       E2.010 
CHAIR:       Rep. Drew Darby 

The Committee will meet to hear invited testimony only on the following interim charges:

Examine the Railroad Commission of Texas' (RRC) response to Hurricane Harvey. Study whether current state rules and regulations are sufficient to protect the public, natural resources, environment, infrastructure, and industrial facilities from damage caused by natural disasters. Evaluate options to ensure the availability of fuel reserves for first responders during natural disasters.

Study the Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program and its effect on gas utility ratemaking and ratepayers.

Evaluate the evolution of frac sand mining in the Permian Basin and how it may impact county infrastructure and oil and gas development. Develop possible recommendations that could assist counties with frac sand mining to better prepare the area for the entrance of this new industry.

Examine how commercial wind energy facilities are decommissioned and whether current statutes adequately protect the rights of wind facility landowners.

Examine how state policies may facilitate investment in public infrastructure and workforce development in the Permian Basin region in order to support the anticipated growth in industry activity and related population, and capture the full economic potential of the region.

Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 85th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the Committee will also specifically consider:

     a. Long-term funding solutions for a stable regulatory structure;

     b. Adequacy of well-plugging processes and funds;

     c. Cleanup and removal of abandoned equipment; and

     d. Seismic research needs for the University of Texas Bureau of         Economic Geology and any response to research findings by the RRC.

NOTICE OF ASSISTANCE AT PUBLIC MEETINGS

Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need assistance, such as a sign language interpreter, are requested to contact Stacey Nicchio at (512) 463-0850, 72 hours prior to the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made.