TX SB1157

Requires the University of Texas System Board of Regents to adopt a policy goal to eliminate routine methane flaring and venting on university lands by 2029

Oil and gas lessees on university lands must submit methane reduction plans that prohibit routine flaring/venting, comply with EPA new source performance standards, and implement quarterly inspections using leak detection equipment like optical gas imaging cameras

The UT Bureau of Economic Geology will assist the Board of Regents and lessees in developing and reviewing these methane reduction plans

Permits methane flaring or venting on university lands only when the Board and operator jointly attest that pipeline capacity is insufficient or connection is unfeasible, and the operator made good faith efforts to find productive use for the gas

Board of Regents must adopt implementing procedures by June 1, 2026, with the act taking effect September 1, 2025, except for certain Natural Resources Code amendments effective January 1, 2027