H.B. No. 2663 amends Section 89.029 of the Natural Resources Code to enhance the requirements for operators applying to the Railroad Commission of Texas for an extension of the deadline for plugging inactive wells. The bill mandates that operators provide a written affirmation that includes specific actions taken regarding the well's electric service and the removal of equipment. Notably, if a well has been inactive for at least ten years, operators must confirm the removal of all surface process equipment, related piping, and any junk or trash associated with the well, as well as all equipment providing electric service to the site, except for that owned by an electric utility.

Additionally, the bill introduces an administrative penalty for operators who fail to comply with these requirements, with fines not exceeding $25,000 for each violation. The changes apply to applications submitted on or after the effective date of the Act, while applications filed before this date will be governed by the previous law. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 89.029 (Natural Resources Code 89)
House Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.029 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Engrossed: Natural Resources Code 89.029 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Senate Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.029 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Enrolled: Natural Resources Code 89.029 (Natural Resources Code 89)