Memorial Day is one of the most meaningful observances on our calendar. It is a time to pause and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Across East and Southeast Texas, families gathered for cookouts, church services, and community events, but at the heart of this weekend was gratitude.
The freedoms we enjoy every day were secured through the sacrifice of generations of Americans who answered the call to serve. As we spend time with loved ones this Memorial Day, let us remember those who never made it home and honor the families who continue to carry that sacrifice with them every day.
With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol.
Texas has long been proud to power America, and our state’s energy industry remains one of the strongest drivers of economic growth, job creation, and national security in the country. During the interim, the Texas House Committee on Energy Resources has been tasked with studying several important issues that will help shape the future of energy production in Texas while ensuring we remain responsible stewards of our natural resources.
These conversations are especially important for East and Southeast Texas communities, where the energy industry supports thousands of jobs, local businesses, school districts, and county economies.
One major focus of the committee this interim is monitoring legislation passed during the 89th Legislative Session to ensure lawmakers’ intent is properly implemented. That includes House Bill 48, which created an organized oilfield theft prevention unit within the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Oilfield theft and related criminal activity can create major financial losses for producers, landowners, and royalty owners, particularly in rural communities where energy production plays a significant role in the local economy. The Legislature wants to ensure state agencies have the tools necessary to investigate these crimes and protect Texans whose livelihoods depend on the energy industry.
The committee is also examining the growing discussion surrounding produced water. Produced water is a byproduct of oil and gas production, and Texas generates enormous volumes of it every year. Historically, much of this water has been disposed of underground, but researchers and industry leaders are increasingly exploring ways to safely treat and reuse produced water for beneficial purposes.
At a time when Texas continues to face long-term water supply challenges, lawmakers are studying whether this resource can play a role in strengthening future water supplies. This issue is particularly important for rural Texas communities that depend heavily on reliable groundwater resources for agriculture, industry, and everyday use. The committee will review barriers that currently limit reuse, including permitting requirements, liability concerns, and infrastructure costs.
Another important topic this interim is the future of hydrogen production in Texas. With our extensive pipeline network, skilled workforce, and existing energy infrastructure, Texas is uniquely positioned to lead the nation in hydrogen development. The committee will review recommendations from the Railroad Commission’s Hydrogen Production Policy Council to determine whether additional statutory changes may be necessary to support the production, transmission, and utilization of hydrogen technologies.
Energy has always been central to Texas’ economy and identity. The work being done by the House Committee on Energy Resources is focused on ensuring our state continues to lead the nation while balancing innovation, economic opportunity, public safety, and responsible resource management. Texans understand that affordable and reliable energy is not only important for our economy — it is vital to our national security and our way of life.
The mobile office is on the road again in June, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: June 10 at the Polk County Commissioner’s Court Room in Livingston from 9:30-11:30 a.m., or at the Tyler County Courthouse in Woodville from 1:30-3:30 p.m.; June 17 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30 a.m., or at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 p.m.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and my Capitol office may be reached at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will be posting regular updates on what's happening in your State Capitol and sharing information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
Trent Ashby represents District 9, which includes Trinity County, in the Texas Legislature.
