H.B. No. 1647 establishes a theft of petroleum products task force under the Railroad Commission of Texas to address and prevent the theft of petroleum products in the state. The task force will consist of representatives from the oil and gas industry, energy trade associations, and various law enforcement agencies. It is mandated to meet quarterly, potentially through virtual means, and will conduct an ongoing study that includes reviewing relevant laws from other jurisdictions, analyzing the economic impacts of petroleum theft, and making recommendations for outreach and training programs.
The task force is required to submit a report every two years, detailing its findings and legislative recommendations aimed at increasing transparency, improving security, and enhancing consumer protections related to petroleum theft. Additionally, the bill specifies that certain government code provisions do not apply to the task force's duration or leadership designation. The task force is to be appointed as soon as practicable after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, and it will remain active until December 31, 2030.