The bill, S.B. No. 1146, amends the Natural Resources Code to address the plugging or replugging of inactive wells under the jurisdiction of the Railroad Commission of Texas. It introduces new provisions that clarify the liability of various parties involved in the plugging process. Specifically, it states that the commission, its employees, the operator, the nonoperator, and any private person who has paid for the plugging or replugging of a well are not liable for damages resulting from their good-faith efforts to comply with the law.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new section, 89.049, which allows operators in good standing to contract with commission-approved well pluggers for the plugging or replugging of orphaned wells. It outlines the responsibilities of the well plugger, including providing notice to the operator and adhering to commission rules. Importantly, it clarifies that entering into such contracts does not imply that the operator assumes liability for the well's physical operation or any associated damages. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 89.045 (Natural Resources Code 89)