The bill, titled "An Act relating to the production and ownership of brine," introduces a new chapter to the Natural Resources Code that defines and clarifies the ownership of brine minerals. It specifies that the owner of the mineral estate of the land owns the brine minerals below the surface as real property, unless otherwise stated in a legal document. The bill also defines "brine" and outlines the components that constitute brine minerals, which include various chemical elements and compounds found in brine.

Additionally, the bill amends the Water Code to include definitions related to brine mining and establishes the responsibilities of the Railroad Commission in regulating this activity. It mandates the adoption of rules for brine mining operations, including reporting requirements for operators of brine production and injection wells. The bill aims to provide a clearer legal framework for the ownership and management of brine resources in Texas, taking effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 27.002, Water Code 27.036 (Water Code 27)