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Bill

HB 2612

Relating to the establishment and functions of the Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Erin Zwiener

Creates Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council to coordinate state policy on CO2 capture, storage, and utilization infrastructure development.

Left pending in committee
#carbondioxidesequestrationpolicycouncil #texas(vj5ny) #energy--alternativefuels(i0314) #energy--fuelstorage(i0319) #environment--air(i0325) #injectionwells(s0692) #interimstudies(i0448) #railroadcommission(v0089) #stateagencies #boards&commissions--newlyproposed(i0773) #universityoftexasataustinbureauofeconomicgeology(u0071)
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Bill Summary · HB 2612

Legislative bill overview

HB 2612 establishes a Texas Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Policy Council to develop policies and strategies for carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) within Texas. The council would coordinate across state agencies to address regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, and economic opportunities related to CO2 sequestration technology.

Why is this important

Carbon sequestration is increasingly relevant to both climate goals and Texas's energy economy, as the state has significant natural geological formations suitable for CO2 storage. The council would position Texas to shape its own regulatory approach to CCUS before federal mandates potentially become more stringent, while potentially creating economic opportunities in emerging industries.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory scope and authority: Questions about whether a new council duplicates existing agency functions (Railroad Commission, TCEQ, etc.) or creates unclear overlapping jurisdictions
  • Climate vs. energy industry framing: Ambiguity about whether the focus is climate mitigation or industrial competitiveness; some view CCUS as enabling continued fossil fuel use rather than transitioning away from it
  • Geological storage concerns: Potential environmental and liability issues around long-term CO2 storage in underground formations, including groundwater contamination and leakage risks

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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