In Texas, oil and gas companies can bury toxic drilling waste on land that belongs to someone else—without even notifying the landowner. House Bill 4572 would finally change that by requiring companies to give notice and get consent before disposing of waste in these “reserve pits.”

These pits—dug next to drilling rigs—are filled with oily sludge, drilling mud, and chemicals that can include known carcinogens like benzene and arsenic. The waste is permanently buried underground, often without groundwater monitoring and with little oversight. Landowners have discovered the damage too late—after investing in ranches or homes, only to find their soil and water compromised.

This bill would give Texans a basic right: to know what’s being buried on their land, and to say no.

HB 4572 would establish clear protections: mandatory notice and consent, rules for groundwater safety, and new bonding standards. It’s a common-sense solution that respects property rights and protects rural families, farmers, and ranchers.

Sign now to tell Texas lawmakers: pass HB 4572 and give landowners the right to protect their land, water, and future.