Oil Regulator Race Puts Wells and Water on Ballot

Republican Bo French and Democrat Jon Rosenthal offer different approaches to the Texas Railroad Commission in their November 3 race.

Despite its name, the 3 member commission regulates the state’s oil and gas industry. Its duties include drilling permits, pipeline oversight, wastewater disposal and enforcement of operating rules.

Rosenthal, an oil field engineer and state lawmaker, has proposed stronger action against chronic polluters and greater scrutiny of emergency preparedness at natural gas facilities.

He also supports charging companies that store oil and gas wastewater underground and directing that revenue toward abandoned wells.

French, whose family owns a Midland oil company, favors reducing production restrictions. He has also campaigned against foreign ownership of wells and diversity programs.

For West Texas, the office has direct responsibilities involving energy development and wastewater. Campaign proposals require the authority and votes needed to become policy.

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