The Railroad Commission of Texas

The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) regulates the state’s massive energy industry. Its jurisdiction covers oil, gas, pipelines, natural gas utilities, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and surface mining.

Established in 1891, the RRC is the oldest regulatory agency in Texas. From the 1930s to the 1960s, it held immense global power by setting oil production limits that effectively controlled worldwide oil prices before the rise of OPEC. Although the state removed railroads from its jurisdiction in 2005, the agency retained its historic name.

Core Responsibilities

The RRC works to prevent resource waste, protect the environment, and ensure public safety through four key areas:

Oil and Gas: Issuing drilling permits, monitoring production, and enforcing environmental protection rules.

Pipeline Safety: Regulating hazardous liquid and natural gas pipelines to prevent leaks and damage.

Surface Mining: Overseeing coal and uranium mining to ensure proper land reclamation.

Alternative Fuels: Managing safety regulations and promoting the use of LP-gas.