The bill amends the Natural Resources Code by adding a new Subchapter U, which establishes a framework for declaring oil or gas emergencies by the Railroad Commission of Texas. It defines an "oil or gas emergency" as any emergency related to oil and gas operations, including uncontrolled releases from wells. The executive director of the commission is granted the authority to declare such emergencies through a written proclamation, which must detail the nature of the emergency and the affected area. Proclamations can initially last for 30 days but may be renewed for additional 30-day periods, and if necessary, for 60-day extensions until the emergency is resolved.

Additionally, the bill provides civil liability immunity for individuals who assist in responding to declared oil or gas emergencies, except in cases of gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. This immunity applies when assistance is provided at the request of authorized representatives from state, local, or federal agencies. The bill clarifies that these immunities are supplementary to existing legal protections. It also specifies that the new provisions do not apply to causes of action that arose before the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

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