Bill

HB 2207

84(R) - 2015
House Energy Resources
House Energy Resources

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Positive

Author(s)

James Keffer

Co-Author(s)

Rafael Anchia
Phil King

Bill Caption

Relating to the foreclosure sale of property subject to oil or gas lease.

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 2207, if passed, would amend the Property Code (Subtitle B, Title 5) by adding a new chapter (Chapter 66). This Chapter essentially states, that if surface and mineral rights have already been separated on a given piece of property, the mineral rights have been leased, and the surface rights are foreclosed upon, then the mineral lease is unaffected by the foreclosure. The bill also includes a set of relevant definitions and more details concerning royalties, and the priorities of certain rights. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

HB 2207 is a beneficial bill on a number of grounds. It eliminates ambiguities regarding the separation of surface and mineral estates, effectively maintains contract and property rights, and preserves the dominance of mineral rights under Texas law. These developments are welcome and the bill affirms limited government and property rights principles. We support HB 2207.

Organizations Supporting

Permian Basin Petroleum Association
Texas Royalty Council