S.818 - Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.818, the Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act, aims to amend the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a research, development, and demonstration program focused on abandoned oil and gas wells. The program seeks to improve data collection, remediation techniques, and strategies to mitigate environmental impacts associated with these wells.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to the creation of a new program within the Department of Energy dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by abandoned wells. This program would foster research and development in areas such as well identification, plugging technologies, and environmental impact mitigation. Ultimately, this aims to reduce methane emissions and groundwater contamination.
Potential Benefits
- Improved environmental quality through reduced methane emissions and groundwater contamination.
- Potential for job creation in the research, development, and remediation sectors.
- Advancements in technologies for identifying and plugging abandoned wells.
- Possible repurposing of abandoned wells for geothermal energy or carbon capture.
- Enhanced data collection and understanding of the impacts of abandoned wells.
Potential Disadvantages
- The program's effectiveness depends on the efficient allocation and management of appropriated funds.
- Potential for delays in implementation due to bureaucratic processes.
- The research may not yield immediate or cost-effective solutions for all types of abandoned wells.
- The focus on research may divert resources from immediate remediation efforts.
- The benefits are contingent on successful coordination between federal, state, and private entities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it promotes environmental protection and public health by addressing the hazards associated with abandoned wells. The allocation of funds for research and development falls within the powers granted to Congress to provide for the general welfare. No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).