Austin, Texas – Today Texas Governor Greg Abbott officially signed legislation, House Bill 40, that affirms the state’s exclusive jurisdiction over oil and natural gas development. The new law, which takes effect immediately, also outlines and clarifies the criteria necessary for adopting local ordinances that regulate surface activity incident to oil and natural gas exploration and production.
The following statement can be attributed to Ed Longanecker, president of the Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO), regarding House Bill 40 being signed into law.
Today Governor Greg Abbott, with overwhelming bi-partisan support from the Texas legislature and local government leaders throughout our state, represented the will of the people by signing House Bill 40 into law.
This is a balanced approach that protects the ability of municipalities to reasonably regulate surface activity related to oil and gas development, while offering the regulatory certainty necessary for our industry operations.
The oil and natural gas sector is the key economic driver for our state, contributing billions of dollars in annual tax revenue, supporting millions of jobs, and providing countless other benefits to our citizens and communities across Texas.
Smart energy policies like House Bill 40, along with the unwavering leadership of our elected officials, and sensible approach to regulations, will protect and grow our economy, create jobs, further establish America as a global energy leader, and help keep us secure for generations to come.
We applaud Governor Abbott for his leadership, as well as his efforts to support the state economy, our fellow citizens and the responsible exploration and production of oil and natural gas in the state of Texas.
