Statements by Railroad Commissioners on Legislative Passage of House Bill 1818

RRC Sunset Legislation

May 09, 2017

AUSTIN – Chairman Christi Craddick and Commissioners Ryan Sitton and Wayne Christian issued the following statements on the legislative passage of House Bill 1818 (HB 1818), the Railroad Commission’s Sunset legislation. HB 1818 now moves to Gov. Greg Abbott for his consideration. 

"I want to thank the Legislature and our staff for their time and hard work on our agency's Sunset bill," Chairman Craddick said.

"All of us at the Railroad Commission share in the commitment to protect the public and the environment in a way that allows the energy industry to remain an economic driver for our state. This Sunset review has spanned several legislative sessions and has resulted in an even stronger Railroad Commission today. We look forward to continuing the important work we do for the people of the great state of Texas." 

Commissioner Sitton said, “I appreciate the Legislature’s hard work in reviewing the agency and ultimately passing a Railroad Commission Sunset Bill. We recognize that there is always room to continue to improve, but our commitment to customer service, transparency and effectiveness has never been greater. Texas’ energy future is incredibly bright and I’m proud that this agency will continue to regulate the industry that remains the lifeblood of the Texas economy.” 

Commissioner Christian said, “Ensuring regulatory certainty for our booming energy sector by completing the Sunset process has been one of my top priorities, both as a candidate and now as a Railroad Commissioner. I appreciate the Legislature’s hard work on this important legislation. Now the energy sector can fully focus on what it does best, employing thousands of Texans, strengthening our economy and providing billions of dollars in tax revenue that fund schools, public safety and other critical functions of our state.”


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/.