Orphan Oil and Gas Well Prevention Act of 2026 aims to prevent orphaned wells in West Virginia.

The Orphan Oil and Gas Well Prevention Act of 2026 seeks to prevent oil and gas wells from becoming orphaned on surface owner's land. It mandates that operators set aside money in escrow accounts for plugging wells. New wells require a bond or escrow agreement. The chief of the Office of Oil and Gas can plug wells if operators fail to do so. The act also allows for deferral of plugging if the surface owner consents and there is no significant risk. The funds in the escrow accounts are to be used for plugging wells and are managed by the escrow agent.

Orphan Oil and Gas Well Prevention Act of 2026 aims to prevent orphaned wells in West Virginia.

The Orphan Oil and Gas Well Prevention Act of 2026 seeks to prevent oil and gas wells from becoming orphaned on surface owner's land. It mandates that operators set aside money in escrow accounts for plugging wells. New wells require a bond or escrow agreement. The chief of the Office of Oil and Gas can plug wells if operators fail to do so. The act also allows for deferral of plugging if the surface owner consents and there is no significant risk. The funds in the escrow accounts are to be used for plugging wells and are managed by the escrow agent.