The proposed bill, titled the Orphan Oil and Gas Well Prevention Act of 2025, aims to address the issue of orphaned oil and gas wells in West Virginia, which are wells that lack a responsible operator to manage their plugging and reclamation. The bill introduces a new article to the West Virginia Code that outlines the responsibilities of operators regarding the prevention of orphaned wells, including the requirement for operators to establish a plugging money set aside escrow account. This account will ensure that funds are available for the proper plugging of wells that are no longer economically viable, thereby protecting the environment and public health from potential leaks and contamination.

Key provisions of the bill include the stipulation that no new well permits will be issued unless operators provide either a bond or an escrow agreement for plugging funds. Additionally, the bill holds previous operators accountable for any environmental issues arising from wells they managed, requiring them to plug the well if it is determined that their negligence caused the problem. The legislation also allows surface owners to consent to a temporary deferral of plugging under certain conditions, ensuring that risks are assessed and managed appropriately. Overall, the bill seeks to create a structured approach to prevent the orphaning of wells and to safeguard the interests of surface owners and the environment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-10A-1, 22-10A-2, 22-10A-3, 22-10A-4, 22-10A-5, 22-10A-6, 22-10A-7, 22-10A-8, 22-10A-9