Abbott Signs Legislation to Protect Texas Oil and Gas Industry, Spur West Texas Growth

Governor Greg Abbott signed into law a suite of bills aimed at protecting Texas' vital oil and gas industry while promoting economic growth in West Texas. The legislation, signed during a ceremony at the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, includes Senate Bills 494, 529, 1806, House Bill 48, and a major budget appropriation for The Beacon project in Midland-Odessa.

“Today is a defining moment for the Permian Basin, the future of this region, and the future of Texas,” Governor Abbott said. “We are bringing the full weight of the law to crack down on oil theft in the Permian Basin to protect the critical role energy development plays in fueling our economy.”

Amid rising concerns over organized crime targeting oil infrastructure, the new laws aim to curb petroleum theft and reinforce law enforcement efforts. Senate Bill 494 establishes a petroleum theft task force, while Senate Bill 1806 and House Bill 48 authorize new tools and personnel for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to prevent and investigate theft.

“These thefts have cost communities millions and threatened one of the pillars of our state’s economy,” said Senator Kevin Sparks (R), author of all three Senate bills. “With these laws, we’re making it clear that Texas will defend its energy industry.”

Senate Bill 529, also authored by Sen. Sparks, enables the City of Midland to allocate specific tax revenues toward economic development projects.

In addition to security efforts, Gov. Abbott also highlighted a $123 million appropriation for The Beacon, a large-scale development project in Midland-Odessa. The funds will go toward healthcare, education, and mixed-use facilities designed to meet the needs of the region’s growing population.

“I’m also signing an item to fund an historic $123 million investment in The Beacon,” Abbott said, calling it “a pivotal economic development project.”

State and local leaders, including former U.S. Commerce Secretary Don Evans and Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, joined Abbott at the ceremony. Representative Tom Craddick (R), Representative Brooks Landgraf (R), and Midland Mayor Lori Blong were also in attendance.

House Bill 48 author Tom Craddick noted, “This is about public safety and economic stability. We’re giving law enforcement the tools they need to protect vital assets and communities.”

The legislation reflects a broader state initiative to secure Texas’ energy infrastructure and strengthen regional economies in oil-producing areas.