According to the Legislative Budget Board (LBB), the fiscal implications of HB 1647 are minimal, with no anticipated significant fiscal impact on the state. Any associated costs for the establishment and operation of the Theft of Petroleum Products Task Force are expected to be absorbed within the existing resources of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

Similarly, there is no significant fiscal impact anticipated for local government units, meaning the bill does not impose additional financial burdens on cities, counties, or other local entities.

HB 1647 proposes the establishment of a Theft of Petroleum Products Task Force under the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) to combat the rising issue of organized petroleum theft in the state. The bill is a response to ongoing criminal activity despite prior legislation, such as SB 1871 (85th Legislature), which created felony offenses for petroleum theft. The task force would study theft patterns, improve law enforcement coordination, enhance security, and develop legislative recommendations to curb economic losses and protect industry stakeholders. It is designed to meet quarterly, collaborate with law enforcement and industry representatives, and provide biennial reports to state leadership.

From a liberty-oriented perspective, HB 1647 upholds private property rights by addressing the unlawful appropriation of petroleum, a key economic resource. It also supports free enterprise by safeguarding Texas’s vital oil and gas sector from theft-related disruptions. Additionally, the bill aligns with limited government principles, as it does not impose new regulations but instead relies on a temporary task force to provide data-driven solutions. Notably, the bill includes a sunset provision, expiring on December 31, 2030, ensuring the task force does not become a permanent entity.

HB 1647 has strong industry and law enforcement support, including endorsements from the Texas Oil and Gas Association, Permian Basin Petroleum Association, and major energy firms like ConocoPhillips and DiamondBack Energy. This backing suggests that the bill addresses real and ongoing security concerns in the sector.

HB 1647 presents a targeted, temporary, and fiscally responsible approach to addressing organized petroleum theft. It promotes property rights, law enforcement cooperation, and economic stability without unnecessary government expansion. With its sunset clause ensuring oversight, the bill aligns with core liberty principles, and as such, Texas Policy Research encourages lawmakers to vote YES on HB 1647.

• HB 1647 protects individual liberty by helping to ensure that property owners — specifically in the oil and gas sector — can exercise control over what they rightfully own without interference from criminal organizations. By addressing petroleum theft through study and targeted recommendations rather than heavy-handed regulation, the bill reinforces the ability of individuals and businesses to operate freely and safely within the market.
• The bill strengthens personal responsibility by focusing on better coordination among existing law enforcement agencies and enhanced training for officers and prosecutors. Rather than expanding government enforcement powers, it emphasizes equipping individuals within the justice system to act effectively. This promotes accountability among both public servants and private stakeholders without imposing new mandates on law-abiding citizens.
• By aiming to reduce organized petroleum theft, HB 1647 defends the integrity of the free market. Theft undermines competition by rewarding criminal behavior over legitimate enterprise. Through targeted study and recommendations, the bill supports fair competition where success is based on innovation, efficiency, and lawful enterprise rather than theft or fraud. It ultimately helps preserve a robust, honest marketplace.
• At its core, HB 1647 is a protection of private property rights. The bill acknowledges the serious economic harm caused when petroleum products are stolen and seeks solutions to better safeguard these assets. Protecting property from theft is a fundamental aspect of liberty; by creating a task force focused solely on theft prevention and property security, the bill directly reinforces this foundational right.
• HB 1647 is carefully crafted to respect limited government principles. It does not expand regulatory authority, create a new enforcement agency, or impose direct mandates. Instead, it establishes a temporary task force (expiring in 2030) to study and make recommendations. This restrained approach ensures that the government role remains consultative and temporary, providing information and coordination without increasing bureaucratic control.

• SB 494 (Same As)