Mont. Co. Reverses Natural Gas Connection Ban

**Montgomery County Reverses Controversial Natural Gas Ban Amid Industry Pushback**

**CONROE, TX –** Just weeks after its initial approval, the Montgomery County Commissioners Court voted 3-2 on June 25 to reverse a controversial ban on new natural gas connections in unincorporated areas of the county. The ban, which cited safety concerns and was set to take effect on September 1, 2024, had sparked significant opposition from the natural gas industry and local builders.

The swift reversal came after Commissioner Robert Riley motioned for reconsideration, arguing that the county had not adequately collaborated with the industry to find solutions before implementing the ban. This sentiment resonated with Commissioners Charlie Riley and James Metts, who joined Robert Riley in voting to lift the restriction.

The original ban, approved in May, stemmed from concerns about “unattended and unsupervised natural gas construction and installation” following changes brought by House Bill 2732 during the 2023 Texas Legislative session. HB 2732 largely reinforced state preemption over utility service regulation, making it more challenging for local governments to enact bans or restrictions on energy connections unless specific, existing local safety concerns and regulations were in place. The county’s move was seen by some as an attempt to assert local safety oversight in the wake of the state law.

Commissioner Metts, who had opposed the initial ban, emphasized the importance of working alongside industry stakeholders and state agencies to establish robust safety protocols rather than imposing outright prohibitions. Commissioner Charlie Riley further articulated, “it’s not up to us to tell residents what type of gas or energy they can use,” highlighting a commitment to consumer choice.

The natural gas industry, including groups like the Texas Gas Association (TGA) and local building organizations such as the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA), had voiced strong opposition. Industry representatives argued the ban was an overreach, could increase construction costs, limit energy choices for homeowners, and was inconsistent with state efforts to ensure energy access. They asserted that existing state regulations, primarily enforced by the Railroad Commission of Texas, already provide comprehensive safety oversight for natural gas infrastructure.

Conversely, Commissioner James Noack, who initially championed the ban, and County Judge Mark Keough maintained their positions against the reversal. Both cited ongoing safety concerns regarding natural gas installations without robust local oversight, expressing worries about potential hazards if proper county regulations were not in place.

With the ban now lifted, Montgomery County intends to collaborate closely with relevant state agencies, including the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Gas Association. The goal is to develop and implement new, enhanced safety regulations and a comprehensive safety plan for natural gas connections. This process will include public input and aims to ensure the safety of residents in unincorporated parts of the county without restricting their access to natural gas as an energy source. The county seeks to move forward with a collaborative approach, balancing safety with resident choice and industry needs.