Mark Miller, a Libertarian running for Texas railroad commissioner, said lawmakers should tighten the state’s oversight of “common carrier” pipelines to bolster protections for landowners in disputes over eminent domain claims.
Jim Malewitz
Jim Malewitz was a reporter at the Tribune from 2013 to 2017, covering energy and environment and then working on investigations. Previously, he covered those issues for Stateline, a nonprofit news service in Washington, D.C. The Michigan native majored in political science at Grinnell College in Iowa and holds a master’s from the University of Iowa. There, he helped launch the nonprofit Iowa Center for Public Affairs Journalism, where he currently serves on the board of directors. Jim also coaches the Texas Tribune Runoffs, which, sources say, is the scrappiest coed newsroom softball team west of the Mississippi.
Posted in
Energy
Pegasus Pipeline’s Partial Restart Concerns Some
The reactivation of a stretch of the 66-year-old Pegasus pipeline has stirred concerns among some Texans who live along its path. Some worry that the 2013 Mayflower spill is an example of what could go wrong in their backyards.
Posted inState Government
The Brief: Aug. 12, 2014
Wallace Hall’s future at the University of Texas System turned clearer on Monday: Lawmakers scolded the embattled regent but decided to keep him around — for now, at least.
Posted inState Government
Brown Calls for More Transparency in Pipeline Decisions
Steve Brown, a Democrat vying for a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission, says the agency should add protections for landowners as it considers a proposal that would change how “common carrier” pipelines are designated.
Posted inState Government
Kolkhorst Announces Intention to Run for Hegar’s Seat
State Rep. Lois Kolkhorst says she will run for Sen. Glenn Hegar’s seat – if Hegar, the Republican nominee for comptroller, wins his race in November.
Posted in
Energy
Energy Efficiency Plan to Aid Low-Income Texans Remains Stuck in Neutral
A plan to provide low-income Texans with the tools to help them interact with “smart” meters and improve energy efficiency at their homes has been stuck in a bureaucratic limbo with no end in sight.
Posted in
Energy
Pipeline Proposal Prompts Eminent Domain Debate
Landowners and pipeline companies are closely scrutinizing proposed rules aimed at clearing up confusion over a status that gives pipeline companies the right to claim private property using eminent domain.
Posted in
Economy
Denton Fracking Ban Could Spur Legal Clash
A North Texas town’s effort to ban hydraulic fracturing may prompt an unprecedented showdown between two powerful rights: a city’s authority to shape development and mineral owners’ right to tap their resources.
Posted in
Economy
Race for Railroad Commissioner Revives Overhaul Talk
Several thwarted legislative proposals to overhaul the Texas Railroad Commission — the state’s curiously named oil and gas regulator — have resurfaced in the race for an open seat on the commission.
Posted in
Energy
Denton Council Punts Fracking Ban Proposal to Voters
Voters will decide whether Denton will become the state’s first city to ban hydraulic fracturing after the city council rejected a proposal to ban the method of oil and gas extraction.
