Statute
HB 49 — Produced Water Reuse & Liability Limit
Where it stands
Lifecycle
- ✓
Filed
Introduced and read the first time, then referred to a committee.
- ✓
Committee
Studied in committee — a public hearing, then a committee report.
- ✓
1st chamber
Debated and passed on second and third reading in its first chamber.
- ✓
2nd chamber
Sent to the other chamber to repeat committee and floor votes.
- ✓
Conference
If the chambers disagree, a conference committee reconciles the versions.
- ✓
Enrolled
Passed both chambers and signed by the Speaker and Lieutenant Governor.
- ✓
Governor
Sent to the governor to sign, allow to become law, or veto.
- 8
Law — current stage
Enacted and in effect as Texas law.
What it does
Sets rules for treating and beneficially reusing produced water — the salty wastewater from oil and gas operations — and limits the tort liability of those who treat, transport, or use it. The liability limit does not cover gross negligence, intentional misconduct, or violations of Railroad Commission rules or TCEQ permits, and it does not change a producer's existing liability to landowners.
Why it matters
As industry and data centers eye treated produced water as a new supply, this law shapes who bears the risk if reuse causes harm — while leaving landowners' existing claims intact.
Last action: Effective · September 1, 2025
Summary is our own words, for general information only and not legal advice. The stages shown reflect the standard Texas legislative process; follow the link above for the official record.