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Chairman Craddick Thanks Legislature for Railroad Commission Funding

FY 2018-19 Budget Includes Additional Inspectors, IT Upgrades

May 30, 2017

AUSTIN – Railroad Commission Chairman Christi Craddick today thanked the 85th Texas Legislature for recognizing the important role the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) plays in keeping the state’s citizens and natural resources safe. The Legislature’s FY 2018-2019 budget includes increased funding for the RRC to strengthen the agency’s inspection and enforcement capabilities, as well as increase transparency for the public.

“During this time of incredible growth within the Texas oil and gas industry, it is critical that the Railroad Commission has the funds necessary to continue to regulate such a dynamic and foundational segment of our state’s economy,” Craddick said.

“Oil and gas production generates billions of dollars in revenue for the state, providing funding for critical services in our communities and opportunities supporting our state’s bright future,” Craddick said.

“Our state’s energy success is driven not only by Texas’ vast mineral wealth, but by the regulatory leadership of the Railroad Commission. We at the Commission are proud of the work we do to ensure the protection of all Texans and our environment while allowing the energy industry to safely innovate and thrive.”

Senate Bill 1 appropriates approximately $256.1 million for the biennium, including an increase of 7 FTEs.

The funding includes the following items, with a focus on additional staff inspectors and IT program upgrades:

  • $5.9 million increase for pipeline safety inspection;
  • $3 million and 7 FTEs for IT modernization projects related to inspection and enforcement tracking and reporting;
  • $40.7 million increase for oil and gas well plugging and remediation activities;
  • $39.6 million for operational stability.

Senate Bill 1 is currently pending the Governor’s signature into law. 

Christi Craddick was elected statewide by the people of Texas in November 2012 to serve a six-year term as Texas Railroad Commissioner. A native of Midland, Christi is an attorney specializing in oil and gas, water, tax issues, electric deregulation and environmental policy.

About the Railroad Commission:
Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including more than 100 years regulating the oil and gas industry. The Commission also has jurisdiction over alternative fuels safety, natural gas utilities, surface mining and intrastate pipelines. Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. To learn more, please visit https://www.rrc.texas.gov/about-us/.