Which two state agencies may have monitoring or enforcement authority besides the TCEQ?

• A. The Railroad Commission of Texas and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
• B. The Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Transportation
• C. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Licensing and Regulation
• D. The Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Senate

Answer: (A)

In Texas, environmental monitoring and enforcement isn’t limited to the TCEQ; other state agencies step in when activities fall under their specialized missions. The Railroad Commission of Texas oversees oil and gas operations and pipelines, including related waste handling and well integrity rules. That means they can inspect, monitor, and enforce environmental requirements tied to energy production and associated wastes, working alongside the TCEQ to protect groundwater and surface water. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department protects wildlife and state park resources, including managing water quality and habitat in parks and enforcing regulations that affect environmental protection in those areas. These roles are why these two agencies may have monitoring or enforcement authority in addition to the TCEQ.