The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) is nearing a significant milestone in its ongoing project to digitize oil and gas records. The agency has successfully digitized over 89.4 million records, an increase of more than six million since October last year. This initiative aims to improve transparency and efficiency within the agency's operations.
By the end of this fiscal year, the RRC expects to have nearly 100 million records available in its online digital archives. This progress reduces the time staff spend on routine record requests, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. The RRC has been working diligently to make nearly a century's worth of paper and microfilm records accessible online, eliminating the need for individuals to visit the Central Records office in Austin or hire consultants.
Chairman Christi Craddick commented on this achievement: "This milestone represents a major step forward for the Railroad Commission and for government transparency and efficiency." She emphasized that modernizing IT systems has been a priority since she took office, enhancing both agency efficiency and public access to data.
Commissioner Wayne Christian highlighted the importance of modernization: "For years now, the Railroad Commission has been rapidly modernizing our agency to meet the demands of the technological age." He praised staff efforts that streamline government processes, allowing energy producers more time for production activities.
Commissioner Jim Wright also acknowledged the benefits of digitalization: "Agency efficiency is a priority for the Railroad Commission." He thanked staff for their dedication in improving access to vital information through digitalization.
The digitized documents include oil and gas production records, well completion reports, hearing files, well status reports, and various permits. These are essential resources for researchers, landowners, royalty owners, energy companies, and those making public information requests. The digitized records can be accessed on the RRC’s website.
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