Texas Law to Require Mapping of Aggregate Resources

In brief

A new Texas law, Senate Bill 2196, requires the University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology to prepare a map and study that identifies economically-viable aggregate resource deposits in the state, as well as existing land uses and local planning policies that could preclude recovery of identified aggregate deposits.

In detail

The University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology, also known as the State Geological Survey of Texas, is a research institution that, unsurprisingly, is one of the world’s foremost research authorities on oil and gas geology, exploration, and production. Under Senate Bill 2196, however, the Bureau will expand its research scope to include construction aggregates.

The legislation, which becomes effective September 1, 2023, requires the University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology to prepare a map and study that identifies economically-viable aggregate resource deposits in the state, as well as existing land uses and local planning policies that could preclude recovery of identified aggregate deposits.

According to the Texas House Committee Report:

As Texas' population continues to grow, a key element affecting the sustainability of future development is the availability of construction materials. These materials, including sand, aggregate, crushed rock, and stone, are essential for residential, commercial, industrial, and public infrastructure projects. It is important for the state to be well informed on the availability of these resources.

In addition to mapping aggregate resources and identifying problematic land uses or local planning policies, Senate Bill 2196 also requires the Bureau to prepare recommendations for legislative action necessary to preserve aggregate resources at identified locations.