What is the purpose of the Railroad Commission’s Listening Sessions public input program?
Currently, the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) and the agency’s Commissioners engage with the public in a variety of ways, including private office visits, open meetings, the RRC website and OPE Engagements throughout the state. The Listening Sessions are designed to give the public yet another opportunity to learn more about the RRC and to share their perspectives on the agency’s regulatory oversight. These sessions support transparency and public engagement in the RRC’s work.
Who is hosting these sessions?
The Listening Sessions are hosted by the RRC’s Office of Public Engagement (OPE).
Can I attend the session in person?
No, the Listening Sessions will only be remote via Microsoft Teams Meetings. For individuals without internet access, a call-in phone number will be made available.
What is the format of the sessions?
We will start with a brief presentation on RRC jurisdiction, move into public comment and then move into a brief Q&A period with our subject matter experts.
Will any of the Railroad Commissioners be in attendance or participate in the virtual Listening Session?
A representative from the Chairman’s office is expected to be present during the Listening Sessions. All meetings will be recorded and transcribed, with copies to be shared with each of the Commissioner offices. We do not expect individual Commissioners to attend these sessions as this is an agency-led initiative.
Who will be speaking at these sessions?
Representatives from the RRC’s Office of Public Engagement. Additionally, the RRC’s subject matter experts will be available to respond to comments and participate in the Q&A portion.
Will there be Spanish translation services available during the sessions?
Yes, the RRC will have a Spanish translator available. When registering, please indicate whether you will need translation services.
Scheduling and Access:
Where can the public find information about open meetings, agendas and proposed rules?
To participate, you must register in advance. After you register you will be provided with a meeting link to join on the day of the Listening Session.
When will registration open?
Registration will open approximately two weeks ahead of the scheduled Listening Session. Please be aware that the webinar format can only accommodate up to 1,000 people. Once that limit is reached, additional participants won’t be able to join.
What is the deadline to register?
The deadline to register is noon the day before each Listening Session.
How can I submit questions or comments before or during the session?
You can submit your questions or comments before the Listening Session by registering and filling out the questionnaire. If you did not register to speak and there is extra time during the public comment section, the chat box will be opened. Please type your full name in the chat and the moderator will unmute your microphone. You will then be given the allotted time for your question or comment.
At what point during the session will I be able to provide my comments?
We will begin the Listening Session with a brief introduction and a short presentation about the RRC. Public comments will follow immediately after the presentation. If you registered to speak, please listen for your name because our moderator will call on speakers. Your microphone will be unmuted when it’s your turn to comment.
Can I submit a comment in writing instead of speaking?
Yes. When completing your registration, please include the comment you’d like to share during the session and then indicate on the form that you’d like for a representative to read your comment on your behalf.
How much time will I have to speak?
We ask that you please keep your questions or comments to 2 minutes or less to allow the first 30 people that register to speak. The moderator will notify you when your allotted time is up. If we have less than 30 registrants, additional time for comments may be allowed.
Will all questions be answered during the session?
We’ll do our best to answer every question during the session. However, there may be some questions that require follow-up from a subject matter expert. In that event, we’ll ask for your email address and contact you directly after the Listening Session with a response. We will also provide RRC contact information during our presentation, which will be given at the start of each session.
Will my comments be part of the public record?
Yes. This is a public listening session and any comments shared during the session are part of the public record and may be made available if requested under the Texas Public Information Act.
Who can I contact if I have follow-up questions?
You can reach out to the RRC’s Office of Public Engagement via email at Publicassist@rrc.texas.com or by calling 512-463-7158.
What if I don’t have access to the internet?
Please contact us at 512-463-7158. We can register you and provide a phone number for you to call in on the day of the Listening Session.
About the Railroad Commission of Texas:
What areas does the Railroad Commission oversee?
The Railroad Commission of Texas is the state agency with primary regulatory jurisdiction over the oil and natural gas industry, pipeline transporters, natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline industry, natural gas utilities, the LP-gas industry, and coal and uranium surface mining operations.
What doesn't the Railroad Commission regulate?
The Commission does not have jurisdiction over railroads, roads, traffic, noise, odors, oil and gas leases and agreements, pipeline easements or royalty payments.
