Signed Into Law
Signed May 29, 2025Effective 2025-05-29
HB2663

Regular Session

Relating to the affirmation required to be made by an operator as part of an application to the Railroad Commission of Texas for an extension of the deadline for plugging an inactive well; providing an administrative penalty.

Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis

Business Impact

Who HB2663 Affects

Regulatory Priority: critical

Significant regulatory changes (effective 2025-05-29). Review with your legal and compliance teams to understand implications.

Estimated Cost Impact

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Compliance Analysis

Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation

Immediate Action Plan

Operational Changes Required

Strategic Ambiguities & Considerations

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Information presented is for general knowledge only and is provided without warranty, express or implied. Consult qualified government affairs professionals and legal counsel before making compliance decisions.

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Quick Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about HB2663

Q

What does Texas HB2663 do?

Effective immediately, HB2663 mandates that oil and gas operators must perform physical field remediation—specifically terminating electric service and removing surface equipment—before applying for an inactive well plugging extension (Form W-3X). This legislation converts a formerly administrative filing into a field-verified compliance event, backed by a new administrative penalty of up to $25,000 for non-compliance.

Q

Who authored HB2663?

HB2663 was authored by Texas Representative Drew Darby during the Regular Session.

Q

When was HB2663 signed into law?

HB2663 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on May 29, 2025.

Q

Which agencies enforce HB2663?

HB2663 is enforced by Railroad Commission of Texas.

Q

How significant are the changes in HB2663?

The regulatory priority for HB2663 is rated as "critical". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.

Q

What is the cost impact of HB2663?

The cost impact of HB2663 is estimated as "medium". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.

Q

What topics does HB2663 address?

HB2663 addresses topics including oil & gas, safety, utilities, utilities--electric and railroad commission.

Q

What are the key dates for HB2663?

Key dates for HB2663: Effective date is 2025-05-29. Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.

Q

What are the penalties under HB2663?

HB2663 establishes the following penalties: administrative penalty of Up to $25,000 per violation for Providing the required affirmation but failing to physically terminate electric service or failing to remove specified surface equipment and trash.. Consult with legal counsel for specific applicability to your situation.

Q

Which Texas businesses are affected by HB2663?

HB2663 primarily affects utility companies and energy providers. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.

Legislative data provided by LegiScanLast updated: January 11, 2026