State Rep. Drew Darby, R‑San Angelo, confirmed Tuesday that the Texas Railroad Commission will bring back the general public comment item at its upcoming December meeting. The move restores a two‑decade‑old practice that was suspended in August.

Legislator pushes for citizen voice

“As chair of the House Committee on Energy Resources, my job is not to cheerlead the industry or regulators, but to be a voice for my constituents and all Texans,” Darby said in a news release. He added that numerous constituents called his office after the August suspension, expressing serious concerns about losing the standalone comment period.

Commissioner acknowledges the change

In a letter to Darby, Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian confirmed the announcement and said the agency will revise its public participation policy to restore the original process at its December meeting. “Going forward, every regular open meeting will include a standing agenda item allowing for general public input on matters within the Commission’s jurisdiction that have not been specifically posted for consideration at that meeting,” Christian wrote.

Background on the suspension

In late August, commissioners voted to suspend the public comment period that had allowed members of the public to testify on issues not on the agency’s agenda. The decision alarmed Darby, who warned that there is no substitute for public comment in Austin, even as the commission explored alternative outreach events.

During a September oversight hearing, Darby indicated that lawmakers would use the 2027 legislative session to further examine the commission’s policies.

New engagement tools remain

While the standing comment slot is being restored, Darby emphasized that the commission’s newer engagement tools—listening sessions and outreach events—should be retained. “Given that the commission intends to restore the standing public comment item to the RRC’s official Public Engagement and Participation Policy at its December 2026 open meeting, the House Committee on Energy Resources will not convene another oversight hearing related to this topic,” Darby wrote. “Restoring standing public comment does not mean discarding the rest of the new policy. Its other features, including the listening sessions, are worthwhile additions that should be kept.”

Legal context

Texas law exempts state agencies, as well as the legislative and executive branches, from a mandatory public comment requirement. Nonetheless, the reinstatement reflects a commitment to transparency and citizen involvement in decisions affecting the state’s oil and gas production.

Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.