By Ahuva Battams, Miguel Suazo, and Raj Lahoti
Texas Operators Should Prepare Now for Mandatory Electronic Filing
The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) has announced that, effective September 1, 2026, it will no longer accept hard-copy submissions for several commonly used oil and gas regulatory forms. Operators that currently rely on paper filings should begin transitioning to electronic filing systems now to avoid compliance disruptions.
Under the RRC’s June 2026 Notice to Operators, paper filings will no longer be accepted for the following forms: P-18, PR, P-5, W-3C, and W-3X.
What Operators Need to Know
The RRC will continue accepting paper submissions through August 2026. However, operators are strongly encouraged to begin filing electronically before the September 1 deadline to make sure the process goes smoothly.
Why the Change?
The change is intended to improve efficiency, reduce processing times, and minimize filing errors. According to the RRC, electronic filing through LoneSTAR and related online systems offers several advantages, including:
- Immediate submission and tracking of filings
- Automated data validation to reduce errors
- Real-time communications regarding approvals and corrections
- Ability to revise submissions electronically
- Pre-populated data fields
- Access to printable PDF records and filing history
LoneSTAR Registration and Delegated Administrators
Companies that are not currently registered in LoneSTAR should begin the registration process as soon as possible. Each company must designate at least one Delegated Administrator to manage user access and account administration within the system.
Operators filing Production Reports (PRs) should also be aware that a Security Administrator Designation (SAD) form must be filed to gain access to RRC Online. PRs are not filed in LoneSTAR.
Why This Matters
Although the transition may appear administrative, operators that delay implementation could face avoidable filing issues as the September 2026 deadline approaches. Companies should review current filing practices, confirm LoneSTAR access, verify Delegated Administrator assignments, and train personnel responsible for regulatory reporting.
With less than three months before the transition takes effect, now is the time for Texas operators to ensure their compliance teams are prepared for a fully electronic filing environment.
Beatty & Wozniak’s regulatory and midstream teams are available to assist clients with any questions about the RRC’s new process.
For more information, please contact Miguel Suazo, Ahuva Battams, DeAnza Valencia, or Raj Lahoti.