H.B. No. 3619 amends the Natural Resources Code to clarify the rights and liabilities of surface estate owners regarding wells that are plugged or replugged by the Railroad Commission of Texas. The bill introduces new provisions that require the commission to restore the surface of the land to its original topography, promoting natural revegetation, unless the surface estate owner declines this restoration. Additionally, it stipulates that individuals authorized to enter the land for these operations cannot take actions that would prevent the surface estate owner from accessing their land, except when necessary to protect public health.

Furthermore, the bill establishes liability protections for both the commission and the surface estate owner. It states that the commission, its employees, agents, and operators are not liable for damages resulting from their good-faith actions in carrying out the chapter. It also grants immunity to the surface estate owner from civil liability for damages that may occur due to actions taken by the commission or authorized individuals while executing their duties under this chapter. The provisions of this act will apply only to wells plugged or replugged on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 89.043, Natural Resources Code 89.044, Natural Resources Code 89.045 (Natural Resources Code 89)
House Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.043, Natural Resources Code 89.044, Natural Resources Code 89.045 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Engrossed: Natural Resources Code 89.043, Natural Resources Code 89.044, Natural Resources Code 89.045 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Senate Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.043, Natural Resources Code 89.044, Natural Resources Code 89.045 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Enrolled: Natural Resources Code 89.043, Natural Resources Code 89.044, Natural Resources Code 89.045 (Natural Resources Code 89)