Good Friday

 In observance of Good Friday, the Railroad Commission offices will be closed Friday, March 29, 2024. Staff will be on hand to respond to emergencies. Call toll-free at 844-773-0305.

 

Oil & Gas Regulatory Chairman Lauds Industry’s Tax Contributions to State Budget, Criticizes ESG Investments and Encourages More Fossil Fuel Energy Generation

August 03, 2022

AUSTIN – Railroad Commission of Texas Chairman Wayne Christian applauds the Texas oil and gas industry following the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts’ announcement of continuous record-breaking tax revenues from the industry.

“I hope all Texans are paying attention to the fact that it’s oil and gas — not wind and solar — that are bringing home the ‘bacon,’ providing reliability for our state’s budget, economy and electricity,” said Railroad Commission Chairman Wayne Christian. “As Texans battle the endless summer heat and sweat rising energy costs, it’s important to note that our houses could be cooler and our electric bills could be lower, if Texas were building out more reliable energy generation, like natural gas, and relying less on unreliables, like wind and solar.”

“Texas’ oil and natural gas industry continues to pay record taxes, reminding Texans why the industry is so vital to our economy,” continued Chairman Christian. “While wind and solar investments have skyrocketed thanks to taxpayer subsidies and the rise of ESG investing, oil and gas investments have seen a 90% drop-off in capital over the last 5 years leading to less build-out of fossil fuel-based electric generation. As our state welcomes 1,000 new Texans every day, we equally need to be building out—not dismantling—the reliable energy infrastructure as well.”

The Comptroller recently announced the oil and gas industry paid record-breaking taxes to the state.  In July, the oil production tax generated $694 million – up 84% from July 2021 and the highest monthly collection on record. For the same month, the natural gas production tax generated $532 million – up 185% from July 2021 and the highest monthly collection on record.


About the Railroad Commission:
Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including almost 100 years regulating the oil and gas industry. The Commission also has jurisdiction over alternative fuels safety, natural gas utilities, surface mining and intrastate pipelines. Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. To learn more, please visit https://www.rrc.texas.gov/about-us/.