Regulatory Alert

RRC Disaster Case by Case Waivers Available for Propane Licensees (Upon Request)

Governor Abbott issued a State of Disaster on January 22, 2026 due to severe winter weather. As a result, the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) is allowing individual, case-by-case regulatory waivers for propane and alternative fuels operations.


These waivers are not automatic — companies and individuals must request them.


Who Can Request a Waiver

This applies to any RRC-regulated licensee or certified individual, not just transport companies, including those involved in:

·      Propane (LP-gas), CNG, & LNG


Common Examples of When a Waiver May Be Appropriate

You may consider requesting a waiver if, for example:

·      Your license or certification renewal is still processing

·      Your license or certification recently expired (e.g., November or December)

·      A required Form 4 or other filing could not be completed due to the storm

·      Staffing, travel, or weather conditions are preventing normal compliance

·      You need temporary relief to continue safe operations during the disaster


Transport-Specific Waivers

Additional waivers may be requested for LP-gas transport drivers who are:

·      Currently certified in Arkansas, Louisiana, or New Mexico (these are states in which RRC has reciprocal agreements)

·      Able to provide the certification number and expiration date.

How to Request a Waiver

Email waiver requests directly to:

Karley Rudynski

Director, Alternative Fuels Safety – RRC

Karley.Rudynski@rrc.texas.gov


Your request must include:

·      What requirement you are requesting relief from

·      Why the waiver is needed due to the disaster

·      What alternative steps you are taking to ensure safety

For general licensing questions: lplicense@rrc.texas.gov


Processing Time

·      Requests submitted Saturday: allow up to 24 hours

·      Requests submitted after Saturday: typically same-day, depending on volume


Duration of Waivers

Approved waivers will remain in effect through January 30, 2026, unless the State of Disaster changes.


Safety Reminder

All operators remain responsible for:

·      Safe operation of their systems

·      Monitoring weather and emergency alerts

·      Responding to safety-critical issues


To report leaks, spills, or incidents: RRC 24-Hour Emergency Line at 844-773-0305


Full RRC Notice (PDF)