Texas is a wonderful state. We have been blessed with a beautiful environment, abundant resources, and great people. One of the key roles the Texas Railroad Commission plays is to act as stewards of this great state. We need commissioners who will listen to every Texan to be sure we are doing all we can to protect our environment while we responsibly develop our resources.
There is a common theme heard around the state among those who present matters to our current Railroad Commissioners – they don’t listen. Rather, a select few powerful interests carry the most sway. That’s not right.
Here’s an example: The Texas Railroad Commission is charged with the approval of proposed injection wells for oilfield waste. In this determination, the commission is charged with considering four factors, one of which is whether the well is “in the public interest.” The commission currently thinks that phrase means only “whether the disposal well will promote oil and gas development.” The highest court to hear this controversy to date, the Austin Court of Appeals, has disagreed and told the commission to consider other factors, like public safety. Despite this determination, the commission continues to ignore evidence of public safety concerns in injection well approval hearings. I will change that and take into account public safety considerations brought forward by landowners and others affected by decisions regarding injection well locations. That’s how you act as a proper steward.
Here’s another example: The Commission hears evidence and makes rulings regarding the safety of gas transmission equipment. In recent years, faulty gas lines in North Texas have been responsible for several fatal residential explosions. It was not until the public outcry reached a fever pitch that the Railroad Commissioners took any action. That too is wrong.
In short, unequal treatment among those regulated by the commission must end, once and for all.
