Regulation of Oil and Gas Emissions

**Urgent Action Needed to Regulate Oil and Gas Emissions in Texas** I am writing to express my deep concern over the alarming rate of flaring and venting of natural gas in Texas, and to urge you to take immediate action to address this critical environmental issue. The current situation is not only detrimental to our environment but also poses significant health risks to our communities. Recent investigations have revealed that Texas regulators approved an astounding 99.6% of flaring and venting permit applications over a 40-month period. This resulted in oil companies requesting to release 195 billion cubic feet of natural gas per year into our atmosphere – enough to power 3 million homes. This practice is not only wasteful but also contributes significantly to climate change and air pollution. The residents of oil-producing areas, such as Catarina, Texas, are already reporting health concerns and safety issues related to flaring and gas leaks. We cannot continue to prioritize oil production at the expense of our citizens' well-being and our environment's health. While the industry claims to have made progress in reducing emissions, experts dispute these assertions, stating that any improvements have been greatly overstated. The Railroad Commission of Texas, in particular, has been criticized for favoring oil production over environmental protection. I urge you to support and introduce legislation that will: 1. Implement stricter regulations on flaring and venting practices 2. Increase oversight and enforcement of existing environmental regulations 3. Invest in infrastructure to capture and utilize natural gas that would otherwise be flared 4. Prioritize the health and safety of residents in oil-producing regions The time for action is now. We cannot afford to wait while our natural resources are wasted and our environment is polluted. Please take a stand for our communities, our environment, and our future by addressing this critical issue immediately.