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HB 1633, if passed, would modify the Natural Resources Code
(Subchapter B, Chapter 91) by adding a new section (91.021) regarding a notice
for a permit to drill an oil or gas well in a Department of Transportation
Easement. Specifically, the bill requires that rules be adopted regarding an
application for a permit to drill within fifty yards on a Department of
Transportation Easement. This permitting process must take place within
fourteen days of receiving a permit to drill an oil or gas well. No authority is
granted to the department regarding the approval of the application of the oil
or gas well permit itself.
Though the bill is somewhat vague as to who reports to whom,
the ultimate intention is to increase communication between state agencies,
namely the Railroad Commission and the Texas Department of Transportation. Private
parties would be subject to a new form which indicated whether wells in
question are located within fifty yards of Department of Transportation easement.
This is a marginal change, and increased communication between government
departments is probably desirable. We see no substantive reason to support or
oppose HB 1633. As such we are neutral on the bill.