Governor Signs Landis Bill Modernizing Ohio's Oil and Gas Laws

COLUMBUS—Governor Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 219, sponsored by State Senator Al Landis (R-Dover), which modernizes oil and gas laws to reduce red tape and increase production in Ohio.

“Energy is national security, and raising Ohio's energy production supports the health and strength of our nation,” said Senator Landis. “This legislation is the first major step to updating Ohio's oil and gas operation laws since 2012. I know that this legislation will allow Ohio's energy to support America's energy independence and maintain our nation's freedom."

Oil and gas production in Ohio dates back to 1814 with the discovery of the first oil well in North America in Noble County. Since that time, production in Ohio has grown and progressed substantially with the Ohio General Assembly creating and adjusting state laws to account for the changes. SB 219 advances and updates Ohio's statues to account for differences in production and development since the law was last updated in 2012. Among changes to current law as a result of the legislation are the following:

• Creates a set timeline of approval by the state following the bidding process for state land leases.
• Prioritizes the plugging of orphan wells around active injection sites to limit environmental harm.
• Establishes an expedited drilling and plugging permit process, limiting applications to no more than 10 times a year.
• Clarifies that when a permit is transferred to a new owner, the liability and surety bonds are included alongside the permit creating a faster transfer process.
• Redirects injection well royalty fees from the Department of Natural Resources to counties of origin.

The bill has been signed by Governor DeWine and will go into effect in September.

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