The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

November 28, 2020

The Texas Legislature will be back in session January 12, 2021 through May 31, 2021.  On November 9, 2020 bills began to be filed.  The first of bills of interest to Texas geologists has been filed.

HB 632, by Darby, Relating to the establishment of an advisory committee for the TexNet seismic monitoring program.  Filed 11/23/2020.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=87R&Bill=HB632

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

11/28/2020

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

November 15, 2020

The Senate Committee on Appropriations has released drafts of fiscal year 2021 funding measures and subcommittee allocations that include $150 million for the U.S. Uranium Reserve (https://bit.ly/3ljJUj8 ). Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby's statement noted: "By and large, these bills are the product of bipartisan cooperation among members of the committee."

The U.S. Uranium Reserve funding is outlined in the Energy and Water Development Subcommittee Bill highlights ( https://bit.ly/3ndGIX8 ) as:

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§  {C}

Uranium Reserve Program – $150 million to initiate the program, the same as the budget request.

The proposed funding level is split between Energy & Water's Nuclear Infrastructure provisions ($120 million) and Defense Non-proliferation provisions ($30 million). The bill, if passed into law will provide full funding for the Department of Energy (DOE) to implement a program for the domestic Uranium Reserve.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

11/15/2020

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

August 22, 2020

The Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) recognizes that the cancellation of many in-person events, professional meetings, and conferences has impacted licensees’ ability to earn continuing education (CE) hours. As a result, a 9-hour credit (tied to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions) has been issued for all P.G. licenses that expire between March 1, 2020 through January 1, 2021. This action lowers the required CE hours for licenses expiring during these months to 6 hours. One of those hours must be ethics (TBPG offers an online video called Ethics in Geoscience). The Board has determined that the remaining 5 hours can be obtained through any combination of on-line or self-directed studies.  Examples of self directed include any geoscience/professional growth related opportunities including work projects.

Considering Governor Greg Abbott’s extended Disaster Declaration related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and recognizing the continued impacts that COVID-19 will have on opportunities to earn the required 15 hours of continuing education credits, TBPG has extended the Temporary CE Policy related to continuing education through January 1, 2021.  If you have any questions, please contact compliance@tbpg.texas.gov or call 512-230-5576.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

8/22/2020

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.
June 28, 2020
 

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) have adopted a modification of their Memoranda of Understanding (MOU).  This rulemaking adopts the repeal of §7.117, which adopts by reference the MOU between the RRC and the TCEQ as codified in the RRC Oil and Gas Division rules at 16 TAC §3.30. This rulemaking also adopts the current text of the MOU under new §7.117 and amends the text of the current MOU (in 16 TAC §3.30) to implement HB 2230 and HB 2771.

Historically, the text of the MOU has been codified in the RRC Oil and Gas Division rules at 16 TAC §3.30 and the TCEQ has adopted the MOU by reference at §7.117. The TCEQ and the RRC have collaborated on changes to the current MOU which are required by HB 2230 and HB 2771. The RRC proposed similar changes to its rule in 16 TAC §3.30 (February 28, 2020, issue of the Texas Register (45 TexReg 1290)).

The RRC and the TCEQ agree that both agencies intend that the MOU at 16 TAC §3.30, once amended, and the MOU adopted at §7.117 will include the same substantive explanations of jurisdiction and requirements. The TCEQ acknowledges that there will be some minor stylistic differences.

For more information go to:  https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/June262020/Adopted%20Rules/30...

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report
6/28/2020

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

April 25, 2020

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is providing an opportunity for public comment and a notice and comment hearing on the draft Oil and Gas General Operating Permit (GOP) Numbers 511, 512, 513, & 514. The draft GOPs contain revisions based on recent federal and state rule changes, which include updates to the requirements tables; the addition of new requirements tables; and updates to the terms. The renewal also corrects typographical errors and updates language for administrative preferences. For more information go to:  https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/nav/titlev_news.html

Comments may be mailed to Ms. Sherry Davis, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of Air, Air Permits Division, MC 163, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Comments may be emailed to sherry.davis@tceq.texas.gov. All comments should reference the draft Oil and Gas GOPs. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on May 27, 2020.

A public hearing on the draft GOPs will be held in Austin on May 26, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. in Building E, Room 201S, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle, Austin. The public hearing will be structured for the receipt of oral or written comments by interested persons. Open discussion within the audience will not occur during the hearing; however, a TCEQ staff member will be available to discuss the draft GOPs 30 minutes prior to the hearing and will also be available to answer questions after the hearing.

Please periodically check at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/nav/titlev_news.html before the public hearing date for updated information regarding accommodations in the event the meeting must be conducted remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions; delay of hearing; or cancellation of the hearing.

If you have questions regarding the draft GOPs, or the public hearing please contact Ms. Sherry Davis at 512-239-2141.

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The Governor has appointed Margon K. Dillard of Richmond, Texas to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, for a term to expire February 1, 2025,. MS. Dillard will be replacing Drusilla Knight-Villarreal of Corpus Christi, who is deceased.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

4/25/2020

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

March 29, 2020

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has canceled this year’s Environmental Trade Fair and Conference due to COVID-19 concerns.  Many of the hotels in the downtown area have closed as well.  If you’ve already signed up for the Trade Fair & Conference the TCEQ will be issuing refunds within 90 days.  If you haven’t received yours by then, contact Innovation Event Management at 800-775-2774 or email at tceq@iemshows.com.

To facilitate training opportunities during the current COVID-19 situation, TCEQ Occupational Licensing has provided a list of online courses that are currently available for continuing education and initial training on our licensing training webpage.  The list of courses are organized by license program and provides a link to the training provider website for additional information about the specific courses.  If you have additional questions about licensing or training, please send an email to licenses@tceq.texas.gov.

The TCEQ and Texas Railroad Commission are both open and operating with a skeleton staff.  The remainder of their staffs are operating from home, so if you need to speak with someone specific, leave them a message and they’ll get back with you.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

3/29/2020

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.
March 8, 2020

The TCEQ discovered and fixed several errors found in the soil TPH calculator (columns E and I of the excel sheets) for the >C₁₂-C₁₆ Aliphatic, >C₁₆ – C₂₁ Aliphatic, and the >C₂₁-C₃₅ Aliphatic carbon ranges. The errors were caused by the incorrect referencing of cells within the PCL calculation equation for the listed aliphatic carbon ranges. Instances of the errors occurred in the ^TotSoil_Comb, ^GWSoil_Ing, ^GWSoil_Class3, and ^AirSoil_Inh-V TPH excel sheets.

The Railroad Commission of Texas proposes amendments to §3.30, relating to Memorandum of Understanding between the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The amendments are proposed to implement changes made by House Bill 2230 and House Bill 2771 from the 84th and 86th Texas Legislative Sessions, respectively. The proposed amendments also update the definition of underground source of drinking water.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the TCEQ and the RRC was last amended in May 2012. Proposed amendments in subsection (a)(4) and subsection (g) update the applicable dates of MOU amendments. The proposed effective date of May 11, 2020, in subsection (g) may change depending on the date of RRC adoption of the proposed amendments.

House Bill 2230 (84th Legislature, 2015) enacted Texas Water Code, Section 27.026, to allow dual authorization of Class II and Class V injection wells for the disposal of nonhazardous brine from a desalination operation, or nonhazardous drinking water treatment residuals (DWTR), under the jurisdiction of the TCEQ, into a Class II injection well permitted by the RRC. House Bill 2230 allows the TCEQ to authorize by individual permit, by general permit, or by rule, a Class V injection well for the disposal of such brine or DWTR in a Class II well permitted by the RRC. Proposed new subsection (e)(4)(E) implements the dual authority granted by House Bill 2230.

House Bill 2771 (86th Legislature, 2019) amended Texas Water Code, Section 26.131, to transfer to TCEQ the RRC's responsibilities relating to regulation of discharges into surface water in the state, as defined in 30 TAC §307.3(70) (relating to Definitions and Abbreviations), of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent resulting from the exploration, production and development of oil, natural gas, or geothermal resources. House Bill 2771 authorizes the transfer of responsibilities from the RRC to the TCEQ after TCEQ receives approval from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to supplement or amend TCEQ's Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) program to include authority over these discharges. House Bill 2771 also establishes September 1, 2021, as the deadline for TCEQ to submit its request to the EPA to supplement or amend the TPDES program to include delegation of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit authority for discharges of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent.

Amendments proposed to implement House Bill 2771 are found in subsection (b)(1)(B), (b)(2)(B), and (d)(12)(A). The definition of "produced water" proposed in subsection (b)(1)(B)(i) is based on TCEQ's proposed definition of that term as published in the January 10, 2020, issue of the Texas Register in proposed amendments to 30 TAC §305.541.

Amendments proposed in subsection (e)(1) correct references to the TCEQ Small Business and Environmental Assistance (SBEA) Division, which is now the TCEQ External Relations Division.

Finally, proposed amendments in §3.30(e)(7)(B)(ii) update the definition of "underground source of drinking water" to reference the definition in 40 Code of Federal Regulations §146.3.

The RRC notes that the proposed amendments to the MOU merely clarify the respective jurisdictions of the RRC and TCEQ and the amendments do not have a direct fiscal impact. However, the statutory changes that prompted the proposed amendments modify the authority of each agency, and the fiscal effect of these modifications is described in the following paragraphs.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Rules Coordinator, Office of General Counsel, Railroad Commission of Texas, P.O. Box 12967, Austin, Texas 78711-2967; online at www.rrc.texas.gov/general-counsel/rules/comment-form-for-proposed-rulema... or by electronic mail to rulescoordinator@rrc.texas.gov. The RRC will accept comments until 12:00 noon on Monday, March 30, 2020. For more information go to: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/February282020/Proposed%20Rul...

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report
3/8/2020

The Wise Report
Henry M. Wise, P.G.
February 15, 2020

Effective March 1, 2020, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Petroleum Storage Tank (PST) Program is revising the procedures on submitting documents to the PST Program for review and comment.  Please note the following regarding electronic files becoming a standard and mandatory procedure.

The Remediation Division of the TCEQ is in the process of transitioning to electronic record keeping with the Central File Room.  Therefore, all paper documents submitted to the program should include electronic copies of all submittals (on disc or USB flash drive).  The electronic and hard copies should be identical, complete copies.  Electronic records should be unlocked/unencrypted in order for protected personally identifiable information (PII) or confidential information to be redacted from electronic documents prior to being made publicly available for viewing.  A Correspondence ID Form (TCEQ Form 20428) must accompany each document submitted to the Remediation Division, and should be affixed to the front of your submittal.  The Correspondence ID Form helps ensure that your documents are identified correctly and are routed to the applicable program for a timely response.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.
The Wise Report
2/15/2020

Leonid A. Buryakovsky

1930-2019

Leonid Alexandrovich Buryakovsky, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 24, 2019 in Houston, Texas. He was born October 12, 1930 to Rebecca Pachepskaya and Alexander Gregorevich Buryakovsky in Dnipropetrovsk Ukraine.
In 1939 World War II erupted and Leonid's father went to serve in the Red Army to fight the Nazis. At the age of eleven, Leonid and his family were forced to evacuate their home and resettled in Uzbekistan. Following the war, the Buryakovsky family came back to their home in the Ukraine. Following graduation in 1953 from Mining Inst USSR, he moved to Armenia where he worked as a geologist.  Leonid worked as a geologist and offshore engineer in the Caspian Sea while continuing his studies in geology and geophysics. In 1960 he earned a Master's Degree in geophysics, and in 1965 Leonid was invited to become a member of the Academy of Sciences. In 1969 Leonid earned a PhD in geophysics and quickly became a world-renowned expert in his field. He authored dozens of highly acclaimed geological books, journals and research publications.
Following Leonid immigration to the United States in 1991, Leonid continued his geological work as an academic, until his reluctant retirement at the age of 78. He was an avid reader and collector of books.
He is survived by his wife Rena; a son and a daughter, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren,

Summarized from the Life Tributes section of the Houston Chronicle Published on Dec. 1, 2019

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The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

November 17, 2019

The TCEQ has updated the Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) Tier 1 Protective Concentration Levels (PCLs).  You can access these tables at: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/remediation/trrp/trrppcls.html.

The 2019 PCL table update is a single Microsoft Excel workbook with each table on a separate worksheet and as a print only Adobe Acrobat portable document format (PDF) file.  The Excel file and the PDF file each contain PCL tables 1 through 10 and the supporting tables in the following order:

• Summary of Updates

• Table 1 – Tier 1 Residential Soil PCLs

• Table 2 – Tier 1 Commercial/Industrial Soil PCLs

• Table 3 – Tier 1 Groundwater PCLs, Residential and Commercial/Industrial

• Table 4 – Tier 1 Residential Total Soil Combined PCLs

• Table 5 – Tier 1 Commercial/Industrial Total Soil Combined PCLs

• Table 6 – Tier 1 Individual Residential Soil PCLs

• Table 7 – Tier 1 Individual Commercial/Industrial Soil PCLs

• Table 8 – Tier 1 Individual Residential and Commercial/Industrial Groundwater PCLs

• Table 9 – Individual Risk-Based Exposure Limits (RBELs), Residential

• Table 10 – Individual Risk-Based Exposure Limits (RBELs), Commercial/Industrial

• Toxicity Factors

• Chemical/Physical Properties

• Organic Carbon-Water Partition Coefficient (Koc) Values for Ionizing Organic COCs as a Function of pH

• Gastrointestinal and Dermal Absorption Fractions (ABS_GI and ABD.d Values)

• 2011 List of Updates

The PCL tables updated in April 2018 were the most recent tables prior to this release.  A guide to the correct interpretation and use of the Tier 1 PCL tables can be accessed at: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/comm_exec/pubs/rg/rg-366-trrp-23.pdf

For additional information on the PCL tables, contact Mike Aplin at mike.aplin@tceq.texas.gov

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

11/17/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

November 9, 2019

The Railroad Commission of Texas proposes amendments to §3.40, relating to Assignment of Acreage to Pooled Development and Proration Units. The amendments are proposed to allow the same surface acreage to be assigned to more than one well in an unconventional fracture treated (UFT) field when mineral ownership is severed at different depths below the surface.

Currently, §3.40 prohibits acreage from being assigned to more than one well in a field, except in limited circumstances. The Commission recognizes significant changes have occurred in the exploration and production industry in Texas, and certain rule changes are needed to uphold the Commission's statutory requirements to prevent waste and protect correlative rights. Specifically, the Commission has determined there are circumstances in which the assignment of acreage to more than one well in a field is necessary to prevent waste and protect correlative rights. The basis for this determination arises from primarily two factors: (1) severed ownership of mineral rights at depth, and (2) technological advances that have unlocked heretofore inaccessible hydrocarbon resources in UFT fields. For more information go to:  https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/November82019/Proposed%20Rule...

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On June 12, 2019, the Texas Commission on Environmental Services determined that the rules in 30 TAC Chapter 39, Subchapters A - E; Chapter 50, Subchapters A - C; Chapter 55, Subchapters A and B; and Chapter 80, §§80.3, 80.5, and 80.251 are obsolete and no longer needed because no applications that were declared administratively complete before September 1, 1999 and thus subject to these rules remain pending with the commission (June 28, 2019, issue of the Texas Register (44 TexReg 3304)). As a result, the commission is proposing, in a concurrent rulemaking, to repeal obsolete rules in Chapters 39, 50, 55, and 80 (Rule Project Number 2019-119-039-LS) which then necessitates updating other rules, primarily to remove obsolete text and update cross-references.

As part of this rulemaking, the commission is concurrently proposing amendments in 30 TAC Chapters 33, 35, 39, 50, 55, 60, 70, 80, 90, 205, 285, 294, 305, 321, 330 - 332, 335, and 350, and new sections in Chapter 39, to make necessary changes due to the proposed repeals. In addition, this rulemaking addresses public notice requirements for certain applications that are not subject to contested case hearing but are currently subject to rules in Chapter 39, Subchapters A and B, without regard to the specified date of administrative completeness. The public notice requirements for those applications would be relocated to proposed new Chapter 39, Subchapter P. Section 334.484 is proposed to be amended by updating an obsolete cross-reference. For more information go to: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/November82019/Proposed%20Rule...

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

11/9/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

October 27, 2019

The Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) adopts amendments to 22 TAC §§851.20, 851.22, 851.23, 851.40, and 851.41, concerning the licensure and regulation of Professional Geoscientists in Texas, and also adopts the repeal of 22 TAC §851.24, concerning references. The amendments and repeal are adopted to comply with statutory changes to Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1002, the Texas Geoscience Practice Act (the Act). These amended rules and the repeal are adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the July 12, 2019, issue of the Texas Register (44 TexReg 3516), and will not be republished.  These changes remove the requirements for references for various applications and waivers, relying on work experience instead.  For more information go to:  https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/October252019/Adopted%20Rules...

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

10/27/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

October 12, 2019

The Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) has had the following changes to its board:

·        Designated as presiding officer of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, for a term to expire at the pleasure of the Governor, Becky L. Johnson of Fort Worth.

·        Appointed to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, for a term to expire February 1, 2025, Edward F. "Ed" Janak, Jr. of Fredericksburg (replacing Charles T. "Tom" Hallmark of Hearne, whose term expired).

·        Appointed to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, for a term to expire February 1, 2025, Drusilla Knight-Villarreal of Corpus Christi (Ms. Knight-Villarreal is being reappointed).

·        Appointed to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists, for a term to expire February 1, 2025, William "David" Prescott, II of Amarillo (Mr. Prescott is being reappointed).

Thanks to all who have and those who are serving on the Board. 

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

10/12/2019

DWIGHT McClintock "CLINT" MOORE

Dwight "Clint" Moore passed away suddenly on Tuesday, October 1, 2019.  Clint, as he preferred to be called, will be sorely missed by his many friends and the many people he touched, which includes, but not limited to many in the Oil and Gas Industry. Clint was a tireless, quick thinking doer, who served a breathtaking number of communities. He was a multifaceted person who excelled in everything he set his mind to do and that was a lot.

His great passions included geology, government, helping other people including via involvement in the Susan G. Komen organization, and diving. Clint managed to often combine his passions in much of what he achieved. He was a grass roots activist in both professional and political organizations. In his core, he strongly believed that individuals, not autocracies, could govern themselves and be the driving force behind human progress.  He did not just give lip service to his belief of a bottom up driven source of governance. He was a tireless volunteer, and more often than not, a leader who showed his fellow colleagues and citizens how to be involved and make things happen. 
Clint’s passion for geology started at an early age as he learned geology from his father, who was an independent Petroleum Geologist.  His professional career started with his first job in 1978 at Diamond Shamrock as a Junior Geologist, subsequently rising to District Geologist and Senior Business Analyst by the time he left in 1987.  He then joined Anadarko Petroleum Corporation for around a 15-year tenure as a Senior Geologist, rising to Exploration Supervisor. He interrupted his career as a geologist in 2003 to make an unsuccessful run to represent the Texas 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, coming in 3rd out of 5 primary candidates.  From 2004 until 2006 he hung out his shingle as an Exploration-Business Analysis Consultant, which was followed by a couple of yearlong tenures at Murphy Oil as Manager of Business Development during 2007 and as the President of DiamondStar Drilling from 2007 to 2008.  Those situations were followed by more than 5 years from 2008 to 2013 as the Vice President for Corporate Development at ION Geophysical Corporation. He left ION during 2013 to co-found GulfSlope Energy, Inc.  He initially served as Vice President and Corporate Secretary, while simultaneously serving as Officer of the Corporation, as well as Chief Administrative Executive and became Vice President – Geophysics, Geology, & Exploration in 2018.  

Clint was a widely respected geoscientist in the Gulf Coast who was an active leader in the geoscience community at the  local level with Houston Geological Society (HGS), as well as the regional level through the Gulf Coast Association Geological Society (GCAGS) and at the national level as an Active Member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG).  He was a Licensed Professional Geoscientist in the State of Texas, a member of AAPG’s Division of Professional Affairs (DPA) and has held scientific and management positions with several petroleum exploration companies during his 40-plus-year professional career. For over the last 20+ years, Clint presented and published many talks, lectures, and speeches, to his many professional organizations.
Clint’s leadership and commitment in the geologic community was extensive. His service to the Houston Geological Society included Vice President (1992-1993), President-Elect (1993-1994), and being the youngest president of the HGS (1994-95), after which he also served on the HGS Nominations Committee.  His impact and active participation in HGS were recognized by his colleagues. He received HGS’s highest awards, including the President’s Award (1993), Distinguished Service Award (1996) and Honorary Life Membership (1999). 

In addition, Clint was a leader for more than 30 years at the regional level for the Gulf Coat Association of Geological Societies.  This was recognized in 2019 when he was awarded the Distinguished Service award for his work bringing high quality technical presentations to the GCAGS annual conventions.  Previously he served on the GCAGS Board of Directors (1994-1995), the AAPG Advisory Council Representative for GCAGS, and often as a GCAGS Convention Session Chair (2019, 2015, 2014, 2012).

Clint’s participation on the national-global level included representing GCAGS and HGS as a Delegate in the AAPG House of Delegates (HoD). He was a member of the HoD’s Constitution and Bylaws, Credentials, Future Directives and Nominations and Election committees. He was awarded both the Distinguished Service Award and the HoD’s highest award of Honorary Membership.

His service to American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) included membership on the AAPG Executive Committee as AAPG Treasurer (2004-06); AAPG Investment Committee Chairman (2009-2013) and Vice Chairman (2007-2010), Audit Review (2004-2006) and Career Services Committee Vice-Chairman (2009-2013) and Chairman (2006-2009 and 2013-2015), Budget Review Committee (2004-2006), All Member Survey Committee (2003-2006), Constitution & Bylaws Committee Chairman (1999-2000), and finally, AAPG Foundation Military Veterans Scholarship Program Committee (2013-present)

Clint’s AAPG colleagues and peers recognized his efforts when he received six Certificates of Merit (2016, 2013, 2006, 2004, 1999, 1997), DPA Distinguished Service (2010), DPA Distinguished Service (2001) and John W. Shelton Search and Discovery award (2011), House of Delegates Long Service Award (2012), and AAPG Honorary Member of the House of Delegates Awardee (2018).

Clint was also a mover and shaker in Republican politics both in Texas and on a National level. Clint combined his diving, government, geology and the petroleum industry passions when, in October 2005, NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary Program Management appointed Clint as the "Oil & Gas Production Representative" to the Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC) of the Flower Gardens Bank National Marine Sanctuary, and was he reappointed in January 2008 to the term limit of a four year term that ran through May 2012. In March 2014, he was reappointed to a new 3-year term through March 2017 and reappointed in May 2017 to a new 3-year term through December 2020. He was elected in May 2015 to a two-year term as Chairman of the Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC) and re-elected again as SAC Chairman to an additional two-year term limit that ended May 2019. While serving on this citizen Council, Clint was elected by the Council to serve as Chairman of the 1st Boundary Expansion Working Group, as well as the Charter Revision Subcommittee, and as Co-Chairman of the current Boundary Expansion Working Group.
In the government arena, in June 2006, Texas Governor Rick Perry appointed Clint as a Committee member from Texas of the Interstate Oil & Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC), where he served the State of Texas on the IOGCC's Energy Resources, Research, and Technology Committee. He was elected by the Texas State Republican Convention six times in a row from 1996 through 2016 to serve as a Republican National Convention Delegate.
On a State level, he served as the Texas Senate District 7 Representative on State Republican Convention Rules Committee 13 times from 1994-2018, as well as the
State Republican Executive Committeeman - Senate District 7 from 2004-2012 and the State Party Assistant Parliamentarian from September 2019 to his death. He served as a former Republican Senate District Chairman for Senate District 7 and 15. He was honored in 2012-13 as State Party Volunteer of the Year – Senate District # 7, and in 1994-95 as State Party Volunteer of the Year – Senate District # 15. From 1989 to present he was served as the Executive Committee Member, and Precinct # 520 and # 110 Chairman. Clint was quite a lobbyist for all the causes he believed in. He once commented that he felt the best thing he had done in his life was to help shepherd through the 2019 Texas law requiring Texas insurers to cover diagnostic breast cancer screenings at no additional cost to patients. He also lobbied on behalf of establishing and reauthorizing the Texas Geoscience Act, which established the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) and therefore licensing in Texas of Geoscientists who are engaged in work that protects public health, safety, welfare and the state’s natural resources. In the most recent Sunset episode, Clint was solely responsible for pushing the reauthorization through the governor’s office against significant resistance.

In Harris County Clint was the Assistant to the Harris County Republican Party Chairman 2004-2008 and 2012-14. He was a member of the Conservative Coalition of Harris County and a Member of Board of Directors and Candidate Review Committee.

Clint’s service did not stop with professional societies and government. He served as Director of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority from 2000-2002 where he is credited with negotiating favorable water rates with the City of Houston. He also served as the Director of the Spring Lakes Homeowners Association 2003-2007 (President 2006-07) and was the Director Harris County Municipal Utility District # 249 (2004-2007).

He was an avid diver with over 450 dives and 100 to Gulf of Mexico Banks and Platforms. He belonged to the Texas Gulf Coast Council of Diving Clubs where he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award – 2018, and held multiple PADI Certifications for Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Enriched Air (NITROX), Manta Ray Awareness (YAP), Maldivian Manta Ray Conservation.  From 1997-2001 he served as the Production Advisor on IMAX Film "Ocean Oasis" a journey into the Baja California desert and Sea of Cortes.

For his extended family, he was the President from 1997-Present of the Rodeham Moore Descendants Association.
Clint graduated from Cranbrook College Preparatory School in Michigan. He served as the 1999 and 2004 Reunion Committee Co-Chairman. He went on to study at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in 1974 and he graduated in 1978 with a dual degree in geology and business administration, and with a minor in economics. He was the Vice President and President of the SMU Alumni Association – Houston Chapter from 1982-1986.
Clint is survived by his wife, Diana Moore. To honor Clint, and in lieu of flowers, Diana asks that people make donations to the AAPG Foundation’s Military Veterans Scholarship Program.  Clint was particularly proud that he was able to help setup that program.  To do this, please go to https://donate.aapg.org/Core/eDonation.aspx/ and from the “Designate Fund” select “Military Veterans Scholarship Program” and please dedicate your donation in memory of Clint Moore.

James Edward Scott, III
1936-2019

James Edward Scott III, 83, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 6th, 2019 near his home in Houston.
Jim was a graduate of The University of Houston where he achieved his B.S. in Geology. Jim went on to be an exceedingly successful Geologist, working for companies such as Unocal, HuffCo, and eventually his own company, Tradewinds Oil & Gas that he operated for 30 years.
He was a highly-respected Geologist, pursuing domestic and international oil & gas projects across the world.
James is survived by his wife, Brenda Ann Scott of 48 years, five sons, one daughter and two grandchildren.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, and daughter

Summarized from the Life Tributes section of the Houston Chronicle on Sept. 13, 2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

September 8, 2019

The TCEQ’s Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) Program is has released updates for two important resources. These resources should be used, as appropriate, for Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) submittals with an ecological component.

Aquatic Life Surface Water Benchmark Tables

The aquatic life surface water benchmark tables have been updated and are available on the TCEQ website. These tables can be found at any of the following links:

• https://www.tceq.texas.gov/remediation/eco/eco.html, under “Supporting Documentation for the TCEQ’s Ecological Benchmark Tables.” See the Excel file link associated with RG-263b.

• https://www.tceq.texas.gov/remediation/trrp/trrppcls.html, under the subheading “Human Health and Aquatic Life Surface Water RBELs.” See the “aquatic life surface water benchmark table” link.

• https://www.tceq.texas.gov/remediation/trrp/guidance.html, under the subheading “Development of Human Health PCLs (TRRP-18 to TRRP-27).” See the “Aquatic Life Benchmark Table” link associated with TRRP-24.

Changes were made to surface water values for eight chemicals of concern (COCs). Please see the “Updates” tab in the Excel workbook for more detail. The benchmark tables for surface water, soil, and sediment may be updated periodically to reflect new state or federal criteria, and/or other information (e.g., toxicological data, persistence information).

Ecological Protective Concentration Levels (PCL) Database/Calculator

The Ecological PCL Database is available at the following link: https://pcl.wtamu.edu/pcl/login.jsp (Google Chrome recommended for optimal performance). The Database has been updated to include the following:

• 6 new COCs: PFOA, PFOS, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and boron.

• 5 new species: domestic chicken, domestic cattle, domestic goat, domestic horse, and domestic sheep.

• Profile updates for barium and selenium.

• Various corrections and functionality improvements. For more detail, see the updates posted at the “About” page .

For additional information on these and related resources, please contact the Remediation Division’s Technical Program Support team at TechSup@tceq.texas.gov.

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

9/8/2019

April 22, 1929 - August 13, 2019

Edward Fabra Haye died on Tuesday, the 13th of August 2019, from a fall doing what he loved to do - powerwalking in his neighborhood.  He attended McKinley Grade School and Mark Twain Junior High, Central Catholic and Alamo Heights high schools in San Antonio. He briefly enrolled at Trinity University and then transferred to University of Texas in Austin. He graduated in 1951 with a BS degree in Geology.

He went to work for Standard Oil of Texas, now Chevron in 1951. He started his own gravity meter company, Photogravity, in 1959.  Ed sold Photogravity in 1977 and started Benchmark Exploration, Inc. where he developed and sold oil and gas prospects to the oil industry.  Ed joined Houston Geological Society in 1960. 

Edward is survived by his wife Janice, two daughters, a son and five grandchildren.

This Remembrance was summarized from the Life Tributes section of the Houston Chronicle dated August 16, 2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

August 18, 2019

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) adopts amended §7.119 without changes to the proposed text as published in the April 12, 2019, issue of the Texas Register (44 TexReg 1813).  This rulemaking will adopt by reference updates to the commission's memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) regarding TCEQ environmental reviews of TxDOT highway (transportation) projects.  The updates are required to implement the following statutes and legislation:

Texas Transportation Code, §201.607(a) requires TxDOT and each state agency that is responsible for the protection of the natural environment, which includes the TCEQ, to revise their MOU that relates to the review of the potential environmental effect of a highway project.  Texas Transportation Code, §201.607(b) requires TxDOT and the TCEQ to adopt, by rule, all revisions to the MOU.  TxDOT and the TCEQ have negotiated updated MOU language.  TxDOT adopted the updated MOU in 43 TAC Chapter 2, Subchapter I on February 28, 2019, the rules became effective on March 20, 2019.  This rulemaking adopts by reference 43 TAC §§2.301 - 2.308.  For more information go to:  https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/August162019/Adopted%20Rules/...

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

8/18/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

August 10, 2019

Texas Water Code, Section 26.406 requires the annual report to describe the current status of groundwater monitoring activities conducted or required by each agency at regulated facilities or associated with regulated activities.  The report is required to contain a description of each case of groundwater contamination documented during the previous calendar year.  Also to be included, is a description of each case of contamination documented during previous periods for which voluntary clean up action was incomplete at the time the preceding report was issued.  The report is also required to indicate the status of enforcement action for each listed case.  The latest report can be found at:   https://www.tceq.texas.gov/publications/sfr/056

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

8/10/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

July 13, 2019

The Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) proposes amendments concerning the licensure and regulation of Professional Geoscientists in Texas. TheTBPG proposes to repeal 22 TAC §851.24, and proposes amendments to 22 TAC §§851.20, 851.22, 851.23, 851.40, and 851.41, to comply with statutory changes to Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1002, the Texas Geoscience Practice Act (the Act) by the 86th Legislature (2019) when they enacted HB 1311, which amended the Act, effective September 1, 2019. The TBPG now proposes changes to its rules to implement the statutory changes. The proposed repeal and amendments will implement the statutory removal of the requirement that applicants for a P.G. license submit references, and the removal of the statutory requirement that P.G. applications be notarized. Proposed amendments will also remove the reference requirement for applicants seeking certification as Geoscientists-in-Training to be consistent with the requirements for P.G. applicants. The amendments also re-number the subsections accordingly. For more information go to:  https://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/July122019/Proposed%20Rules/2...

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

7/13/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

June 15, 2019

The State Legislature is now out of session.  Bills that have been passed and sent to the Governor are listed below, along with their final status.

HB 720, by Larson and Guillen, Relating to appropriations of water for use in aquifer storage and recovery projects. Signed by the Governor, 6/10/2019, effective immediately.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB720

HB 721, by Larson, Relating to the duty of the Texas Water Development Board to conduct studies of and prepare and submit reports on aquifer storage and recovery. Signed by the Governor, 6/14/2019, effective immediately.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB721

HB 722, by Larson, Relating to the development of brackish groundwater. Signed by the Governor, 6/14/2019, effective 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB722

HB 723, by Larson, Perry, similar to SB 724, Relating to a requirement that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality obtain or develop updated water availability models for certain river basins. Signed by the Governor 5/24/2019, effective on 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB723

HB 807, by Larson, Relating to the state and regional water planning process. Signed by the Governor 6/10/2019, effective immediately.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB807

HB 907, by Huberty, identical to SB 2123, Relating to the penalty for failure to register certain aggregate production operations with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Fines will double. Signed by the Governor 6/14/2019, effective 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB907

HB 1311, by Senfronia Thompson, Flynn, Lambert, Paddie, Nevarez, Watson, identical to SB 609, Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists.  Filed without the Governor's signature 5/14/2019, effective on 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1311

HB 2203, by Miller, Zerwas, Reynolds, Stephenson, identical to SB 1885, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. "Notwithstanding Subchapter H, Chapter 418, Government Code, or any other law requiring confidentiality, a person who accidentally other law requiring confidentiality, a person who accidentally which the substance was released." Signed by the Governor 5/31/2019, effective on 9/1/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2203

HB 2771, by Lozano, Guillen, identical to SB 1585, Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the discharge into water of this state of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent resulting from certain oil and gas activities. Signed by the Governor 6/14/2019, effective 9/1/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2771

HB 3815, by Morrison, duplicate of HB 3839, identical to SB 1220, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Signed by the Governor 6/14/2019, effective 9/1/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3815

SB 483, by Campbell, identical to HB 1044, Relating to permits for certain injection wells that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. Signed by the Governor 6/10/2019, effective 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB483

SB 520, by Campbell and Zaffirini, identical to HB 481, Relating to the storage and recovery of water in a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. Signed by the Governor 6/10/2019, effective 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB520

SB 1041, by Taylor, Larson, identical to HB 1617, Relating to the deadline by which the Texas Water Development Board is required to identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for certain areas of the state. The new date is 12/1/2032. Signed by the Governor 5/31/2019, effective 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1041

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

6/15/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

May 25, 2019

Editorial comment:

The Texas legislative session is drawing to a close and bills are being sent to the Governor for his signature.  Once sent to him, he has 10 days to sign, veto, or allow to pass without his signature.  The most closely watched bill this year was HB 1311 (relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG)), which passed without the Governor’s signature.

I want to thank the Texas Geoscience Council (TGC) for taking on and leading the herculean task of assuring the continuation of the TBPG (full disclosure, I am on the TGC Board of Directors as the AIPG-Texas representative).  Typically, the Texas legislature will follow the Sunset Commission’s recommendations.  The Sunset Commission’s staff report for the TBPG recommended abolishment.  This recommendation took everyone by surprise and the TGC was originally founded to change this recommendation.  The TGC quickly organized a massive campaign with most of the Texas geologic organizations for a letter-writing campaign, testimony by a number of people from various Texas geological organizations and businesses, and hiring a lobbyist.  Funding for the lobbyist was provided by many geological organizations, businesses, and individuals.

Many individuals provided their time to do all of this on a voluntary basis, disrupting their busy lives (work, family, and even vacations were interrupted, put on hold or the TGC work was done late at night, early in the morning, and on weekends).  Some even used vacation days to provide testimony and other needed work.  Everyone should be proud of the various roles they played, no matter how small, to do what many thought was impossible.

Now that the TBPG bill has been passed and enacted, the real work begins.  Everything we just went through will begin again in five years, when the TBPG gets reviewed by the Texas Sunset Commission once more.  This time they will be looking at either abolishing the TBPG or combining it with the Texas Board of Professional Engineers.  There were a number of “deficiencies” that the Sunset Commission’s Staff Report made that will need to be addressed by the TBPG over the next five years.  To help address some of those “deficiencies” the TBPG will be forming several Advisory Committees and will need members of the geological community to fill those positions.  The TGC will be looking for volunteers to help fill those positions. 

In addition, the geologic community needs to start preparing for the next Texas Sunset Commission review so that we won’t have to do any last-minute organizing or fund-raising.  That means we need to start organizing and fund-raising now.  This summer, the TGC be organizing a game plan for all of this.  We can’t constantly be begging for funds from all Texas Geological organizations, businesses, and individuals, although they have all been generous.  I do know that the AEG-Texas, AIPG-Texas, and Houston Geological Society have organized to provide future funding, as needed, but the TGC needs to also determine ways to provide its own funding.  While the TGC still accepts donations, and is still in need of them for future funding, we are looking for various ways to provide that funding, which will include memberships, sponsorships, field trips, seminars, etc.  That means that we’ll also need volunteers for these as well.  If you’re interested, I suggest you contact the TGC at:  https://www.txgeoscience.org/

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The State Legislature is now in session and bills are being filed and worked on.  New information is listed in bold (0 new bills listed,), * indicates sent to the Governor (3 bills sent, 1 signed, 1 filed without signature):

HB 223, by Reynolds, Relating to the funding through greenhouse gas emissions fees of energy efficiency programs administered by certain utilities; authorizing a fee.  Referred to State Affairs, 2/19/2019.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB223

HB 225, by Reynolds, Relating to the analysis of inspection and maintenance requirements for air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for certain oil and gas facilities.  Regulates fugitive emissions from all oil field equipment, the use of venting and flaring, etc.  Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/19/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB225

HB 245, by Farrar, Relating to a requirement to make certain environmental and water use permit applications available online.  "The applicant shall post a copy of the application on a publicly accessible Internet website and provide to the commission the address of that website."  Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/19/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB245

HB 478, by Phelan, Relating to the funding of flood planning, mitigation, and infrastructure projects.  Left pending in committee, 3/5/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB478

HB 481, by Kuempel, identical to SB 520, Relating to the storage and recovery of water in a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/12/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB481

HB 720, by Larson and Guillen, Relating to appropriations of water for use in aquifer storage and recovery projects. Signed in the House 5/24/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB720

HB 721, by Larson, Relating to the duty of the Texas Water Development Board to conduct studies of and prepare and submit reports on aquifer storage and recovery. House concurs in Senate amendment(s) -reported, 5/24/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB721

HB 722, by Larson, Relating to the development of brackish groundwater. Senate appoints conferees - reported, 5/24/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB722

*HB 723, by Larson, Perry, similar to SB 724, Relating to a requirement that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality obtain or develop updated water availability models for certain river basins. Signed by the Governor, effective on 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB723

HB 724, by Larson, Relating to the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the discharge, diversion, and transfer or other reuse of treated brackish groundwater and return flows derived from treated brackish groundwater. Received from the House 4/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB724

HB 726, by Larson, Relating to the regulation of groundwater. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 5/8/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB726

HB 801, by Walle, identical to SB 179. Relating to the establishment of a task force to conduct a comprehensive study on flood control infrastructure for Harris County. Committee report filed with Committee Coordinator 4/5/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB801

*HB 807, by Larson, Relating to the state and regional water planning process. Sent to the Governor 5/24/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB807

HB 817, by Tracy O. King, identical to SB 655. Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer. Left pending in committee 3/12/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB817

HB 893, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. "The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million." Referred to environmental Regulaton, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB893

HB 907, by Huberty, identical to SB 2123, Relating to the penalty for failure to register certain aggregate production operations with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Fines will double. House concurs in Senate amendment(s) - reported, 5/23/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB907

HB 908, by Huberty, identical to SB 2125, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; increasing an administrative penalty. Referred to Environmental Regulation 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB908

HB 909, by Huberty, identical to SB 2124, Relating to best management practices for aggregate production operations. Left pending in committee, 5/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB909

HB 928, by Anchia, Goodwin, Zwiener, Israel, Relating to establishing the Texas Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission to study and address the impacts of climate change in this state. Sets up who's on the Commission.  Interestingly, the TCEQ nor geologists are listed, although the TCEQ could be brought in, as needed, and a geologist could be chosen by one of the various groups listed. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB928

HB 942, by Anchia, Goodwin, Zwiener, Cole, Chris Turner, Relating to the creation and duties of the Global Climate Change Commission. Referred to Environmental Regulations, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB942

HB 944, by Dutton, Relating to the posting of notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality at the site of the facility or proposed facility for which the permit is sought. Referred to Environmental Regulaton, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB944

HB 990, by Gutierrez, Canales, Martinez, Raymond, Guillen, Allen, Anchia, Beckley, Bernal, Blanco, Bowers, Bucy, Calanni, Cole, Coleman, Collier, Cortez, Davis, Yvonne, Deshotel, Dutton, Farrar, Fierro, Gervin-Hawkins, Jessica González,  Mary González, Goodwin, Guerra, Hernandez, Herrero, Hinojosa, Howard, Israel, Jarvis Johnson, Julie Johnson, Tracy O. King, Longoria, Lopez, Lucio III, Martinez Fischer, Meza, Minjarez, Moody, Muñoz, Jr., Neave, Nevárez, Ortega, Pacheco, Perez, Ramos, Reynolds, Rodriguez, Romero, Jr., Rose, Rosenthal, Talarico, Thierry, Senfronia Thompson, Chris Turner, John Turner, Vo, Walle, Zwiener, identical to SB 515, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the effects of the construction of a border wall on storm drainage and other environmental matters in this state. They will conduct a study on the effects of a border wall on storm drainage, water quality, environmental contamination, flooding, etc. Left Pending in Committee 4/2/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB990

HB 1010, by Paul, Relating to state and regional flood planning. By 9/1/2021, and before the end of each successive five-year period after that date the board shall prepare and adopt a state flood plan. Referred to Natural Resources, 2/26/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1010

HB 1044, by Zwiener, Nevarez, Oliverson, Bucy, Cyrier, Dominguez, Goodwin, Ramos, Rodriguez, Rosenthal, identical to SB 483, Relating to permits for certain injection wells that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. For Williamson and Northern Travis counties. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/15/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1044

*HB 1311, by Senfronia Thompson, Flynn, Lambert, Paddie, Nevarez, Watson, identical to SB 609, Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists.  Filed without the Governor's signatuire, effective on 9/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1311

HB 1491, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/27/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1491

HB 1594, by Shine, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of groundwater availability in certain counties. Referred to Natural Resources, 3/4/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1594

HB 1617, by Larson, identical to SB 1041, Relating to the deadline by which the Texas Water Development Board is required to identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for certain areas of the state. "Not later than December 1, 2032, the Texas Water Development Board shall identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for areas of this state not described by Subsection (a) of this section." Considered in Calendars 3/27/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1617

HB 1868, by Lozano, Charles "Doc" Anderson, Zwiener, Stephenson, Relating to the creation of the Texas Rural Water Advisory Council. Referred to Water& Rural Affairs 5/7/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1868

HB 1904, by Larson, identical to SB 881, Relating to withdrawals of water from the Edwards Aquifer to supply a military installation. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/16/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1904

HB 1980, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 3/5/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1980

HB 2098, by Nevarez, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the effects of the construction of a border wall on water quality in this state. Referred to Environmental Regulaton, 3/6/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2098

*HB 2203, by Miller, Zerwas, Reynolds, Stephenson, identical to SB 1885, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. "Notwithstanding Subchapter H, Chapter 418, Government Code, or any other law requiring confidentiality, a person who accidentally other law requiring confidentiality, a person who accidentally which the substance was released." Sent to the Governor 5/16/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2203

HB 2238, by Hefner, identical to SB 978, Relating to a study of the feasibility of converting quarries and surface mine pits for use as water storage reservoirs to enhance this state's available water supply. Left pending in committee 3/25/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2238

HB 2710, by Murr, identical to SB 2278, Relating to the regulation of certain aggregate production operations by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; authorizing an increase in the amount of a fee. Left pending in committee 5/1/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2710

HB 2771, by Lozano, Guillen, identical to SB 1585, Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the discharge into water of this state of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent resulting from certain oil and gas activities. House concurs in Senate amendment(s) - reported, 5/23/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2771

HB 2871, by Biedermann, Relating to the regulation of certain aggregate production operations by the Railroad Commission of Texas; authorizing a fee; providing administrative penalties and other civil remedies; creating criminal offenses. Left pending in committee 4/8/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2871

HB 2942, by Guillen, Relating to the adoption and enforcement of reclamation standards for certain sand mining operations; authorizing a fee. Left pending in committee 5/16/2019, 5/10/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2942

HB 3023, by Mary Gonzalez, Relating to a study by Texas A&M University on the expected effects of future climate change in this state and the preparedness of this state to address those effects. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 3/13/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3023

HB 3264, by Buckley, Shine, Sheffield, identical to SB 1726, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of groundwater conditions in certain counties. Left pending in committee 5/16/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3264

HB 3324, by Zweiner, Relating to groundwater impact contingency planning by pipeline operators. Left pending in committee 4/2/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3324

HB 3717, by Dominguez, identical to SB 1999, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. Left pending in committee 4/17/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3717

HB 3770, by Raymond, identical to SB 1496, Relating to a pilot project conducted by the Texas Water Development Board regarding the real-time monitoring of the inundation and water quality of certain portions of the Rio Grande. Referred to Natural Resources 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3770

HB 3798, by Biedermann, Relating to the regulation of and permit requirements for certain facilities that extract, produce, or process aggregates and of related facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Railroad Commission of Texas; providing administrative penalties and other civil remedies; creating criminal offenses. Left pending in committee 4/17/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3798

HB 3805, by Paul, identical to SB 2394, Relating to reporting requirements for certain accidental discharges or spills. Referred to Environmental Regulaton 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3805

HB 3815, by Morrison, duplicate of HB 3839, identical to SB 1220, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Signed in the House 5/24/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3815

HB 3816, by Morrison, identical to SB 2387, Relating to the regulatory analysis of rules proposed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Committee report sent to Calendars, 4/29/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3816

HB 3839, by Murphy, duplicate of HB 3815, identical to SB 1220, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Referred to Business & Industry 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3839

HB 4380, by Herrero, Relating to the creation of the Environmental Task Force Advisory Committee. A geologist is not part of this Task Force Committee but an environmental engineer is. Committee report sent to Calendars, 5/3/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB4380

HB 4570, by Larson, Relating to establishing an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction. Placed on General State Calendar, 5/9/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB4570

HB 4599, by Blanco, Relating to the establishment and implementation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of a program to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases in this state; authorizing a fee. Referred to Environmental Regulation 3/26/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB4599

SB 179, by Miles, identical to HB 801, Relating to the establishment of a task force to conduct a comprehensive study on flood control infrastructure for Harris County.  Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 2/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB179

SB 185, by Miles, Relating to the response to certain oil or gas well accidents by state agencies and responsible parties.  An operator of an oil or gas well shall give immediate notice of a fire, leak, spill, or break at the well to the appropriate commission oil and gas division district office and submit to the commission a letter giving a full description of the event, including the volume of crude oil, gas, or other well liquids or gases lost.  Referred to Energy Resources 5/16/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB185

SB 483, by Campbell, identical to HB 1044, Relating to permits for certain injection wells that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. House passage as amended reported, 5/22/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB483

SB 515, by Rodriguez, identical to HB 990, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the effects of the construction of a border wall on storm drainage and other environmental matters in this state. They will conduct a study on the effects of a border wall on storm drainage, water quality, environmental contamination, flooding, etc. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 2/14/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB515

SB 520, by Campbell and Zaffirini, identical to HB 481, Relating to the storage and recovery of water in a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. House passage as amended reported, 5/22/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB520

SB 609, by Watson, Birdwell, Buckingham, and Nichols, identical to HB 1311, Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. Referred to Business& Commerce, 2/21/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB609

SB 655, by Flores, identical to HB 817, Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 3/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB655

SB 694, by Campbell, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operations by the Texas Commission on EnviLeft pending in committee 4/17/2019ronmental Quality; increasing a fee; increasing administrative penalties. Referred to Environmental Regulation 5/13/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB694

SB 724, by Perry, similar to HB 723, Relating to a requirement that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality obtain or develop updated water availability models for certain river basins. Referred to Water& Rural Affairs, 3/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB724

SB 881, by Campbell, Menendez, Larson, Lopez, identical to HB 1904, Relating to withdrawals of water from the Edwards Aquifer to supply a military installation. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB881

SB 978, by Hughes, identical to HB 2238, Relating to a study of the feasibility of converting quarries and surface mine pits for use as water storage reservoirs to enhance this state's available water supply. Received from the Senate 5/21/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB978

*SB 1041, by Taylor, Larson, identical to HB 1617, Relating to the deadline by which the Texas Water Development Board is required to identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for certain areas of the state. The new date is 12/1/2032. Sent to the Governor 5/17/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1041

SB 1220, by Bettencourt, Hinojosa, Kolkhorst, Lucio, identical to HB 3815 and 3839, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Referred to Business & Commerce, 3/7/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1220

SB 1496, by Zaffirini, identical to HB 3770, Relating to a pilot project conducted by the Texas Water Development Board regarding the real-time monitoring of the inundation and water quality of certain portions of the Rio Grande. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 3/14/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1496

SB 1585, by Hughes, identical to HB 2771, Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the discharge into water of this state of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent resulting from certain oil and gas activities. Placed on intent calendar 4/23/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1585

SB 1696, by Campbell, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operations; requiring a permit; authorizing a fee. Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development, 3/14/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1696

SB 1726, by Buckingham, identical to HB 3264, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of groundwater conditions in certain counties. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 3/14/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1726

SB 1885, by Kolkhorst, identical to HB 2203, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/18/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1885

SB 1999, by Hinojosa, identical to HB 3717, Relating to an oil and gas production tax credit for oil and gas producers that provide treated produced water to aquifer storage and recovery project operators.  Referred to Natural Resources& Economic Development 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1999

SB 2064, by Menendez, Relating to methane gas reduction by The University of Texas System.  Referred to Higher Education 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2064

SB 2123, by Creighton, Buckingham, identical to HB 907, Relating to the penalty for failure to register certain aggregate production operations with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2123

SB 2124, by Creighton, Buckingham, identical to HB 908, Relating to best management practices for aggregate production operations.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2124

SB 2125, by Creighton, Buckingham, identical to HB 909, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; increasing an administrative penalty.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2125

SB 2155, by Zaffirini, Relating to the retention of soil samples and records related to a permit for a municipal solid waste facility issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; creating an administrative penalty. Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2155

SB 2278, by Buckingham, identical to HB 2710, Relating to the regulation of certain aggregate production operations by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; authorizing an increase in the amount of a fee.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2278

SB 2385, by Miles, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2385

SB 2387, by Powell, identical to HB 3816, Relating to the regulatory analysis of rules proposed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2387

SB 2394, by Taylor, identical to HB 3805, Relating to reporting requirements for certain accidental discharges or spills.  Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2394

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

5/25/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

May 11, 2019

The State Legislature is now in session and bills are being filed and worked on.  New information is listed in bold (0 new bills listed):

HB 223, by Reynolds, Relating to the funding through greenhouse gas emissions fees of energy efficiency programs administered by certain utilities; authorizing a fee.  Referred to State Affairs, 2/19/2019.  For more information go to:  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB223

HB 225, by Reynolds, Relating to the analysis of inspection and maintenance requirements for air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for certain oil and gas facilities.  Regulates fugitive emissions from all oil field equipment, the use of venting and flaring, etc.  Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/19/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB225

HB 245, by Farrar, Relating to a requirement to make certain environmental and water use permit applications available online.  "The applicant shall post a copy of the application on a publicly accessible Internet website and provide to the commission the address of that website."  Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/19/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB245

HB 478, by Phelan, Relating to the funding of flood planning, mitigation, and infrastructure projects.  Left pending in committee, 3/5/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB478

HB 481, by Kuempel, identical to SB 520, Relating to the storage and recovery of water in a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/12/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB481

HB 720, by Larson and Guillen, Relating to appropriations of water for use in aquifer storage and recovery projects. Scheduled for public hearing on 5/13/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB720

HB 721, by Larson, Relating to the duty of the Texas Water Development Board to conduct studies of and prepare and submit reports on aquifer storage and recovery. Considered in public hearing 5/10/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB721

HB 722, by Larson, Relating to the development of brackish groundwater. Scheduled for public hearing on 5/13/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB722

HB 723, by Larson, Perry, similar to SB 724, Relating to a requirement that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality obtain or develop updated water availability models for certain river basins. Text of Senate Amendment(s) 5/10/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB723

HB 724, by Larson, Relating to the authorization by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the discharge, diversion, and transfer or other reuse of treated brackish groundwater and return flows derived from treated brackish groundwater. Received from the House 4/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB724

HB 726, by Larson, Relating to the regulation of groundwater. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 5/8/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB726

HB 801, by Walle, identical to SB 179. Relating to the establishment of a task force to conduct a comprehensive study on flood control infrastructure for Harris County. Committee report filed with Committee Coordinator 4/5/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB801

HB 807, by Larson, Relating to the state and regional water planning process. Scheduled for public hearing on 5/13/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB807

HB 817, by Tracy O. King, identical to SB 655. Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer. Left pending in committee 3/12/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB817

HB 893, by Dutton, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks. "The commission shall set each carcinogenic risk level used by the commission in the development of a protective concentration level, risk-based exposure limit, or any other remediation standard used in connection with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, including the Texas Risk Reduction Program (30 T.A.C. Chapter 350) or a similar program established by the commission, at a rate not greater than one in one million." Referred to environmental Regulaton, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB893

HB 907, by Huberty, identical to SB 2123, Relating to the penalty for failure to register certain aggregate production operations with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Fines will double. Reported engrossed, 5/10/2019  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB907

HB 908, by Huberty, identical to SB 2125, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; increasing an administrative penalty. Referred to Environmental Regulation 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB908

HB 909, by Huberty, identical to SB 2124, Relating to best management practices for aggregate production operations. Left pending in committee, 5/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB909

HB 928, by Anchia, Goodwin, Zwiener, Israel, Relating to establishing the Texas Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission to study and address the impacts of climate change in this state. Sets up who's on the Commission.  Interestingly, the TCEQ nor geologists are listed, although the TCEQ could be brought in, as needed, and a geologist could be chosen by one of the various groups listed. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB928

HB 942, by Anchia, Goodwin, Zwiener, Cole, Chris Turner, Relating to the creation and duties of the Global Climate Change Commission. Referred to Environmental Regulations, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB942

HB 944, by Dutton, Relating to the posting of notice of intent to obtain a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality at the site of the facility or proposed facility for which the permit is sought. Referred to Environmental Regulaton, 2/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB944

HB 990, by Gutierrez, Canales, Martinez, Raymond, Guillen, Allen, Anchia, Beckley, Bernal, Blanco, Bowers, Bucy, Calanni, Cole, Coleman, Collier, Cortez, Davis, Yvonne, Deshotel, Dutton, Farrar, Fierro, Gervin-Hawkins, Jessica González,  Mary González, Goodwin, Guerra, Hernandez, Herrero, Hinojosa, Howard, Israel, Jarvis Johnson, Julie Johnson, Tracy O. King, Longoria, Lopez, Lucio III, Martinez Fischer, Meza, Minjarez, Moody, Muñoz, Jr., Neave, Nevárez, Ortega, Pacheco, Perez, Ramos, Reynolds, Rodriguez, Romero, Jr., Rose, Rosenthal, Talarico, Thierry, Senfronia Thompson, Chris Turner, John Turner, Vo, Walle, Zwiener, identical to SB 515, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the effects of the construction of a border wall on storm drainage and other environmental matters in this state. They will conduct a study on the effects of a border wall on storm drainage, water quality, environmental contamination, flooding, etc. Left Pending in Committee 4/2/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB990

HB 1010, by Paul, Relating to state and regional flood planning. By 9/1/2021, and before the end of each successive five-year period after that date the board shall prepare and adopt a state flood plan. Referred to Natural Resources, 2/26/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1010

HB 1044, by Zwiener, Nevarez, Oliverson, Bucy, Cyrier, Dominguez, Goodwin, Ramos, Rodriguez, Rosenthal, identical to SB 483, Relating to permits for certain injection wells that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. For Williamson and Northern Travis counties. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/15/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1044

HB 1311, by Senfronia Thompson, Flynn, Lambert, Paddie, Nevarez, Watson, identical to SB 609, Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists.  Sent to the Governor 5/2/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1311

HB 1491, by Reynolds, Relating to the establishment of the Texas Environmental Justice Advisory Council. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 2/27/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1491

HB 1594, by Shine, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of groundwater availability in certain counties. Referred to Natural Resources, 3/4/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1594

HB 1617, by Larson, identical to SB 1041, Relating to the deadline by which the Texas Water Development Board is required to identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for certain areas of the state. "Not later than December 1, 2032, the Texas Water Development Board shall identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for areas of this state not described by Subsection (a) of this section." Considered in Calendars 3/27/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1617

HB 1868, by Lozano, Charles "Doc" Anderson, Zwiener, Stephenson, Relating to the creation of the Texas Rural Water Advisory Council. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 5/7/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1868

HB 1904, by Larson, identical to SB 881, Relating to withdrawals of water from the Edwards Aquifer to supply a military installation. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/16/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1904

HB 1980, by Reynolds, Relating to the creation of the Climate Change Impact Assessment Council.. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 3/5/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB1980

HB 2098, by Nevarez, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the effects of the construction of a border wall on water quality in this state. Referred to Environmental Regulaton, 3/6/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2098

HB 2203, by Miller, Zerwas, Reynolds, Stephenson, identical to SB 1885, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. "Notwithstanding Subchapter H, Chapter 418, Government Code, or any other law requiring confidentiality, a person who accidentally other law requiring confidentiality, a person who accidentally which the substance was released." Committee report printed and distributed, 5/9/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2203

HB 2238, by Hefner, identical to SB 978, Relating to a study of the feasibility of converting quarries and surface mine pits for use as water storage reservoirs to enhance this state's available water supply. Left pending in committee 3/25/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2238

HB 2710, by Murr, identical to SB 2278, Relating to the regulation of certain aggregate production operations by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; authorizing an increase in the amount of a fee. Left pending in committee 5/1/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2710

HB 2771, by Lozano, Guillen, identical to SB 1585, Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the discharge into water of this state of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent resulting from certain oil and gas activities. Committee report printed and distributed, 5/9/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2771

HB 2871, by Biedermann, Relating to the regulation of certain aggregate production operations by the Railroad Commission of Texas; authorizing a fee; providing administrative penalties and other civil remedies; creating criminal offenses. Left pending in committee 4/8/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2871

HB 2942, by Guillen, Relating to the adoption and enforcement of reclamation standards for certain sand mining operations; authorizing a fee. Reported engorssed, 5/10/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB2942

HB 3023, by Mary Gonzalez, Relating to a study by Texas A&M University on the expected effects of future climate change in this state and the preparedness of this state to address those effects. Referred to Environmental Regulation, 3/13/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3023

HB 3264, by Buckley, Shine, Sheffield, identical to SB 1726, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of groundwater conditions in certain counties. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 5/10/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3264

HB 3324, by Zweiner, Relating to groundwater impact contingency planning by pipeline operators. Left pending in committee 4/2/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3324

HB 3717, by Dominguez, identical to SB 1999, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. Left pending in committee 4/17/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3717

HB 3770, by Raymond, identical to SB 1496, Relating to a pilot project conducted by the Texas Water Development Board regarding the real-time monitoring of the inundation and water quality of certain portions of the Rio Grande. Referred to Natural Resources 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3770

HB 3798, by Biedermann, Relating to the regulation of and permit requirements for certain facilities that extract, produce, or process aggregates and of related facilities by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Railroad Commission of Texas; providing administrative penalties and other civil remedies; creating criminal offenses. Left pending in committee 4/17/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3798

HB 3805, by Paul, identical to SB 2394, Relating to reporting requirements for certain accidental discharges or spills. Referred to Environmental Regulaton 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3805

HB 3815, by Morrison, duplicate of HB 3839, identical to SB 1220, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Referred to Business & Commerce, 5/10/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3815

HB 3816, by Morrison, identical to SB 2387, Relating to the regulatory analysis of rules proposed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Committee report sent to Calendars, 4/29/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3816

HB 3839, by Murphy, duplicate of HB 3815, identical to SB 1220, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Referred to Business & Industry 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB3839

HB 4380, by Herrero, Relating to the creation of the Environmental Task Force Advisory Committee. A geologist is not part of this Task Force Committee but an environmental engineer is. Committee report sent to Calendars, 5/3/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB4380

HB 4570, by Larson, Relating to establishing an advisory board to study surface water and groundwater interaction. Placed on General State Calendar, 5/9/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB4570

HB 4599, by Blanco, Relating to the establishment and implementation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of a program to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases in this state; authorizing a fee. Referred to Environmental Regulation 3/26/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=HB4599

SB 179, by Miles, identical to HB 801, Relating to the establishment of a task force to conduct a comprehensive study on flood control infrastructure for Harris County.  Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 2/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB179

SB 185, by Miles, Relating to the response to certain oil or gas well accidents by state agencies and responsible parties.  An operator of an oil or gas well shall give immediate notice of a fire, leak, spill, or break at the well to the appropriate commission oil and gas division district office and submit to the commission a letter giving a full description of the event, including the volume of crude oil, gas, or other well liquids or gases lost.  Placed on intent calendar 5/8/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB185

SB 483, by Campbell, identical to HB 1044, Relating to permits for certain injection wells that transect a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. Referred to Natural Resources 4/23/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB483

SB 515, by Rodriguez, identical to HB 990, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the effects of the construction of a border wall on storm drainage and other environmental matters in this state. They will conduct a study on the effects of a border wall on storm drainage, water quality, environmental contamination, flooding, etc. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 2/14/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB515

SB 520, by Campbell and Zaffirini, identical to HB 481, Relating to the storage and recovery of water in a portion of the Edwards Aquifer. Referred to Natural Resources 4/23/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB520

SB 609, by Watson, Birdwell, Buckingham, and Nichols, identical to HB 1311, Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. Referred to Business& Commerce, 2/21/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB609

SB 655, by Flores, identical to HB 817, Relating to a restriction on permits authorizing direct discharges of waste or pollutants into water in certain areas of the Edwards Aquifer. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 3/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB655

SB 694, by Campbell, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operations by the Texas Commission on EnviLeft pending in committee 4/17/2019ronmental Quality; increasing a fee; increasing administrative penalties. Received from the Senate, 5/9/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB694

SB 724, by Perry, similar to HB 723, Relating to a requirement that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality obtain or develop updated water availability models for certain river basins. Referred to Water& Rural Affairs, 3/1/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB724

SB 881, by Campbell, Menendez, Larson, Lopez, identical to HB 1904, Relating to withdrawals of water from the Edwards Aquifer to supply a military installation. Committee report sent to Calendars 4/25/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB881

SB 978, by Hughes, identical to HB 2238, Relating to a study of the feasibility of converting quarries and surface mine pits for use as water storage reservoirs to enhance this state's available water supply. Considered in public hearing, 5/10/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB978

SB 1041, by Taylor, Larson, identical to HB 1617, Relating to the deadline by which the Texas Water Development Board is required to identify and designate brackish groundwater production zones for certain areas of the state. The new date is 12/1/2032. Placed on Local, Consent, and Res. Calendar, 5/14/2019.  https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1041

SB 1220, by Bettencourt, Hinojosa, Kolkhorst, Lucio, identical to HB 3815 and 3839, Relating to requiring notices of property located in floodplains, flood pools, or reservoirs to be provided by sellers of real property and on subdivision plats. Referred to Business & Commerce, 3/7/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1220

SB 1496, by Zaffirini, identical to HB 3770, Relating to a pilot project conducted by the Texas Water Development Board regarding the real-time monitoring of the inundation and water quality of certain portions of the Rio Grande. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 3/14/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1496

SB 1585, by Hughes, identical to HB 2771, Relating to the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for the discharge into water of this state of produced water, hydrostatic test water, and gas plant effluent resulting from certain oil and gas activities. Placed on intent calendar 4/23/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1585

SB 1696, by Campbell, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operations; requiring a permit; authorizing a fee. Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development, 3/14/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1696

SB 1726, by Buckingham, identical to HB 3264, Relating to a study by the Texas Water Development Board of groundwater conditions in certain counties. Referred to Water & Rural Affairs, 3/14/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1726

SB 1885, by Kolkhorst, identical to HB 2203, Relating to notice of a radioactive substance release. Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/18/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1885

SB 1999, by Hinojosa, identical to HB 3717, Relating to an oil and gas production tax credit for oil and gas producers that provide treated produced water to aquifer storage and recovery project operators.  Referred to Natural Resources& Economic Development 3/19/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB1999

SB 2064, by Menendez, Relating to methane gas reduction by The University of Texas System.  Referred to Higher Education 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2064

SB 2123, by Creighton, Buckingham, identical to HB 907, Relating to the penalty for failure to register certain aggregate production operations with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2123

SB 2124, by Creighton, Buckingham, identical to HB 908, Relating to best management practices for aggregate production operations.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2124

SB 2125, by Creighton, Buckingham, identical to HB 909, Relating to the regulation of aggregate production operation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; increasing an administrative penalty.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2125

SB 2155, by Zaffirini, Relating to the retention of soil samples and records related to a permit for a municipal solid waste facility issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; creating an administrative penalty. Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2155

SB 2278, by Buckingham, identical to HB 2710, Relating to the regulation of certain aggregate production operations by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; authorizing an increase in the amount of a fee.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2278

SB 2385, by Miles, Relating to the carcinogenic risk level used in the development of certain environmental remediation benchmarks.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2385

SB 2387, by Powell, identical to HB 3816, Relating to the regulatory analysis of rules proposed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.  Referred to Natural Resources & Economic Development 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2387

SB 2394, by Taylor, identical to HB 3805, Relating to reporting requirements for certain accidental discharges or spills.  Referred to Water & Rural Affairs 3/21/2019. https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/history.aspx?LegSess=86R&Bill=SB2394

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

The Wise Report

5/11/2019

The Wise Report

Henry M. Wise, P.G.

April 28, 2019