Texas regulators to put information of oil company penalties, complaints online

The Railroad Commission of Texas oversees one of the most prolific oil and gas regions in the world, the agency's hordes of data and documents remain snared in a filing system that has yet to make it to the 21st century. The commission has been unable to make available online all of the information it collects, as it is hobbled by some troubled oil and gas companies whose fees account for most of the commission's budget, and limited funding from the state. The Legislature has ordered that some of it, at least, be put online, with the help of more than $4 million over the next two years, according to state budget documents. With the funds, the commission will put online records of fines and other penalties given to companies for violating state rules. The commission also will make available complaints, and information about inspections.  The commission also will be using some of its state-allocated funds to fill nearly 150 empty positions at the agency, including much-needed oil and gas well and pipeline inspectors.