Senator Burns Bill to Address Shut-In Gas Wells Passes Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate has advanced Senate Bill 132, authored by Sen. George Burns, to address the growing number of shut-in gas wells across the state. The measure now heads to the House for consideration.

A "shut-in gas well" refers to a well that is temporarily closed off, ceasing production, but can be brought back into operation later, often due to market conditions, maintenance or other operational reason.

Senate Bill 132 establishes a timeline for the management of shut-in wells, ensuring they are either plugged or brought back into production. Under the bill, any gas well shut-in after the bill’s effective date may remain inactive for no more than seven years. For wells already shut-in prior to the bill’s passage, owners will have up to ten years to either plug the well or return it to production.

Sen. Burns said the measure strikes a balance between industry flexibility and accountability.

“This legislation provides a responsible and structured approach to addressing shut-in gas wells, ensuring that our energy resources are managed efficiently while preventing long-term environmental concerns,” Sen. Burns said. “By establishing clear deadlines and requiring phased reductions, we are promoting responsible stewardship of Oklahoma’s natural resources. This is a proactive step that allows well owners the time and opportunity to make informed decisions in advance.”

The bill requires that by July 1, 2028, owners must reduce the number of shut-in wells by 25%, followed by a 50% reduction by July 1, 2031, and complete elimination of inactive wells by July 1, 2035.

If passed by the House, and signed into law, the Oklahoma Corporation Commission will be tasked with implementing and enforcing these provisions.

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