Texas wrangles over new gas and oil waste rule heat up

Texas is poised to update its oil and gas waste management rules for the first time in 40 years, sparking debate between environmentalists and industry leaders. The proposed revisions aim to enhance waste disposal practices from oil and gas drilling, particularly regarding the handling of toxic byproducts such as produced water and drilling mud.

Environmental groups argue that the new rules fall short in protecting groundwater, while industry representatives contend that stricter measures could be financially burdensome for smaller companies. The public has until September 30 to provide feedback on the proposal, with hearings scheduled for this week.

This is a massive overhaul of significantly important groundwater protection rules. Texas produces billions of gallons of oilfield waste each year, some of which threatens groundwater. The updated regulations could either improve environmental protections or escalate conflicts between environmental advocates and the energy sector.