TITLE 31.NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION

Part 1. GENERAL LAND OFFICE

Chapter 1. EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION

The General Land Office (GLO) adopts, without changes, the repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 1, Subchapter A, relating to Vacancies, §1.4; the repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 1, Subchapter E, relating Vacancies Listing Service, §1.51 and §1.52; and the repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 1, Subchapter F, relating to Procedures for Hearings, §§1.61-1.79, without changes, as published in the November 1, 2002, issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10333) and will not be republished.

The GLO adopts the repeal Subchapter A, relating to Vacancies, as the GLO has consolidated all its rules relating to Vacancies into 31 TAC Chapter 13, relating to Land Resources, and this subchapter is no longer needed and with the adopted repeal of §1.4 this subchapter no longer contains any rules. The GLO adopts the repeal of §1.4, relating to Adopt-A-Beach Volunteer Program, because the Adopt-A-Beach Volunteer Program has been reorganized and this section now is not relevant.

The GLO adopts the repeal Subchapter E, relating to Vacancy Listing Service, including §1.51 and §1.52 because the listing service is outdated as this services is now available on-line at the GLO web-site and is free of charge.

The GLO adopts the repeal of Subchapter F, relating to Procedures for Hearings. Sections 1.61 - 1.78 are simultaneously being adopted in a separate rulemaking action, as new Chapter 2, Subchapter B relating to Procedures for Non-Contested Case Hearings. Chapter 2 contains rules for the GLO's contested and non-contested case hearings. The GLO adopts this repeal in order to consolidate its hearing procedures under one chapter. The consolidation of all the GLO hearing rules into one chapter creates more logically organized and easier to use rules.

Section 1.79, relating to Procedures for Formal Protests of Purchase Contracts, is adopted for repeal and simultaneously is adopted in a separate rulemaking action as new Chapter 3, Subchapter E, §3.50, relating Procedures for Formal Protests of Purchase Contracts. Section 1.79 is located in a subchapter relating to hearings; this section is adopted for repeal and simultaneously being adopted as §3.50 in order to consolidate rules that govern general services, activities and procedures that the GLO provides. This change creates more logically organized rules and clarifies the legal procedures available to persons protesting the GLO process for awarding purchase contracts.

No comments were received regarding the adoption of these proposed repeals.

Subchapter A. VACANCIES

31 TAC §1.4

The repeal of Chapter 1, Subchapter A is adopted under §51.174 and §51.175 of the Texas Natural Resources Code that authorizes the GLO to promulgate rules relating to Vacancies. The repeal of Chapter 1, §1.4 is adopted under §61.067 of the Texas Natural Resources Code which provides the GLO the authority to promulgate rules regarding the Adopt-A-Beach program.

Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 51, §§51.171-51.192 and Chapter 61, §61.067 are affected by the repeal of this subchapter and section.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208480

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter E. VACANCY LISTING SERVICE

31 TAC §1.51, §1.52

The repeal of Chapter 1, Subchapter E, §1.51 and §1.52 is adopted under §31.051 of the Texas Natural Resources Code that authorizes the GLO to promulgate and enforce rules consistent with the law.

Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 51, §§51.171-51.192 are affected by the repeal of this subchapter and sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208481

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter F. PROCEDURES FOR HEARING

31 TAC §§1.61 - 1.79

The repeal of Chapter 1, Subchapter F, §§1.61-1.78 is adopted under §2001.004 of the Texas Government Code that requires state agencies to adopt rules of practice for formal and informal hearing procedures. The repeal of Chapter 1, §1.79 is adopted under Texas Government Code, §2155.076 that requires state agencies to develop and adopt procedures for resolving vendor protests relating to purchase issues.

Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 31, §31.1611, §31.166, Chapter 34, §34.0135 and Texas Government Code, Chapter 2155, Subchapter B are affected by the repeal of this subchapter and sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208482

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Chapter 2. RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

31 TAC §§2.1 - 2.28

The General Land Office (GLO) adopts the repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 2, relating to Rules of Practice and Procedure, §§2.1-2.28, without changes, as published in the November 1, 2002, issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10335) and will not be republished.

Sections 2.1-2.28 govern the procedures for contested case hearings before the GLO including those hearing that the GLO refers to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). New sections are simultaneously being adopted in a separate rulemaking action as a new Chapter 2, Subchapter A, relating to Procedures for Contested Case Hearings.

Texas Government Code, §2001.004, relating to Requirement to Adopt Rules of Practice and Index Rules, Orders and Decisions, requires the GLO to adopt rules for its hearing procedures. The GLO currently has rules governing its hearing procedures in several chapters in 31 Texas Administrative Code Part 1, relating to the General Land Office. The GLO is consolidating its hearing procedures into one chapter, Chapter 2, relating to Rules of Practice and Procedure through the concurrent repeals and adoptions of several subchapters and sections. The GLO adopts the repeal of §§2.1-2.28 and simultaneously adopts in a separate rulemaking action new Chapter 2, Subchapter A, relating to Procedures for Contested Case Hearings, §§2.1-2.28, to consolidate its rules governing contested case hearings into one chapter. This consolidation will create rules that are more logically organized and easier to use.

No comments were received regarding the proposed repeal of Chapter 2, §§2.1-2.28.

The repeal of Chapter 2, §§2.1-2.28, is adopted under Texas Government Code, §2001.004 that requires state agencies to adopt rules of practice for formal and informal hearing procedures.

Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 31, Chapter 40, Chapter 51, §51.076, and Chapter 52, §52.135 are affected by the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208483

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Chapter 2. RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

The General Land Office (GLO) adopts new 31 TAC Chapter 2, Subchapter A, relating to Procedures for Contested Case Hearings, including §2.1, relating to Applicability, §2.2, relating to Definitions, §2.3, relating to Jurisdiction, §2.4, relating to the Powers and Duties of the Administrative Law Judge, §2.5, relating to Substitution of Administrative Law Judge, §2.6, relating to Appearance of Parties at Hearings; Representation, §2.7, relating to Filings, §2.8, relating to Discovery, §2.9, relating to Prehearing Conferences, §2.10, relating to Orders, §2.11, relating to Settlement Conferences §2.12, relating to Stipulations, §2.13, relating to Form of Pleadings, §2.14, relating to Motions, §2.15, relating to Waiver of Right to Appear, §2.16, relating to Conduct of Hearings, §2.17, relating to Telephone Hearings, §2.18, relating to Evidence, §2.19, relating to The Record, §2.20, relating to Proposal for Decision, §2.21, relating to the Filing of Exceptions and Replies, §2.22, relating to Commissioner's Orders, §2.23, relating to Rehearing, §2.24, relating to Judicial Review, §2.25, relating to Administrative Finality, §2.26, relating to Effective Date of Order, §2.27, relating to Emergency Order, and §2.28, relating to Show Cause Orders and Complaints, without changes to the text as published in the November 1, 2002 issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10335) and will not be republished. The GLO is adopting the simultaneous repeal of §§2.1-2.28 in a separate rulemaking action.

The GLO adopts new 31 TAC Chapter 2, Subchapter B, relating to Procedures for Non-Contested Case Hearings, including §2.31, relating to Applicability, §2.32, relating to Definitions, §2.33, relating to Hearings, §2.34, relating to Public Decorum and Participation, §2.35, relating to Effect of Notice, and §2.36, relating to Order of Proceedings and Submissions without changes to the text as published in the November 1, 2002 issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10335) and will not be republished. The rules related to these hearing procedures are being simultaneously adopted for repeal in a separate rulemaking action under Chapter 1, Subchapter F, relating to Procedures for Hearings.

The GLO proposes for adoption new 31 TAC Chapter 2, Subchapter C, relating to the Procedures for Special Board of Review Hearings, including §2.40, relating to Purpose, §2.41, relating to Terms, §2.42, relating to Applicability of Rules, §2.43, relating to Request for Board Hearings, §2.44, relating to Political Subdivision Authority, §2.45, relating to Notice, §2.46, relating to Hearings, §2.47, relating to Quorum, §2.48, relating to Orders, §2.49, relating to Binding Effect of Orders and Development Plans, and §2.50, relating to Time Periods without changes to the text as published in the November 1, 2002 issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10335) and will not be republished. The rules related to these hearing procedures are being simultaneously adopted for repeal in a separate rulemaking action under Chapter 13, Subchapter C, relating to Special Board of Review Hearings.

Texas Government Code, §2001.004, relating to Requirement to Adopt Rules of Practice and Index Rules, Orders and Decisions, requires the GLO to adopt rules for hearing procedures. Currently, several chapters in 31 Texas Administrative Code contain the GLO's hearing procedures. The GLO adopts these new subchapters and sections in order to consolidate its hearing procedures under one chapter, Chapter 2, relating to Rules of Practice and Procedure. The consolidated Chapter 2 contains the rules governing all GLO Contested Case Hearings and other hearings required by Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 31, §31.1611, relating to Public Hearing Before Preparation of Development Plan, Chapter 31, §31.166, relating Hearing, and Chapter 34, §34.0135, relating to Policies on Public Hearings. The consolidation of all the GLO hearing procedures into one chapter creates more logically organized and easier to use rules.

The GLO adopts new Chapter 2, Subchapter A, relating to Procedures for Contested Case Hearings, for administrative reasons in order to better organize the rules contained within this chapter. Only non-substantive and grammatical changes have been made to the adopted sections.

Adopted Chapter 2, Subchapter B, relating to Procedures for Non-Contested Case Hearings, applies to hearings before the GLO, Boards for Lease and the Special Board of Review. These adopted rules better reflect the actual hearing process before the boards and clarify the hearing procedures for non-contested case hearings.

Adopted §2.31, relating to Applicability, provides that the procedures in this subchapter apply to hearings that are not contested case hearings before the GLO, the Boards for Lease and the Special Board of Review.

Adopted §2.32, relating to Definitions, defines the terms used in this subchapter.

Adopted §2.33, relating to Hearings, provides that hearings under this subchapter shall comply with the Texas Opens Meeting Act, Government Code Chapter 551, that hearings will be recorded in a manner at the discretion of the chairman of the hearing and the Board will determine the fees for the hearing's transcripts.

Adopted §2.34, relating to Public Decorum and Participation, governs conduct for attendants and participants. Any person may be represented by an attorney or other person authorized to speak on their behalf.

Adopted §2.35, relating to Effect of Notice, provides that notice for the hearings under this subchapter will be given in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Government Code Chapter 551 and that persons failure to attend does not invalidate the proceedings. Proposed §2.36, relating to Order of Proceedings and Submissions, provides the general requirements for the hearing process and the receipt of material for the record.

The Special Board of Review will conduct its hearings in accordance with the procedures provided in the adopted Chapter 2, Subchapter B, relating to Procedures for Non-Contested Case Hearings. However, the Special Board of Review has specific procedural requirements that are not provided by the rules contained in this adopted subchapter; therefore, the GLO adopts new Chapter 2, Subchapter C, relating to Procedures for Special Board, of Review Hearings, in order to maintain these procedural requirements.

No comments were received regarding the adoption of 31 TAC Chapter 2, Subchapter A, §§2.1-2.28, Subchapter B §§2.31-2.36 and Subchapter C §§2.40-2.50 31 TAC §§2.1 - 2.28

Subchapter A. PROCEDURES FOR CONTESTED CASE HEARINGS

31 TAC §§2.1 - 2.28

The new Chapter 2, Subchapter A, relating to Procedures for Contested Case Hearings, §§2.1-2.28 is adopted under Texas Government Code, §2001.004 that requires state agencies to adopt rules of practice for formal and informal hearing procedures.

Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 31, Chapter 40, Chapter 51, §51.076, §51.3021, and Chapter 52, §52.135 are affected by these adopted rulemaking actions.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208484

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter B. PROCEDURES FOR NON-CONTESTED CASE HEARINGS

31 TAC §§2.31 - 2.36

The new Chapter 2, Subchapter B, relating to Procedures for Non-Contested Case Hearings, §§2.31-2.36 is adopted under Texas Government Code §2001.004 that requires state agencies to adopt rules of practice for formal and informal hearing procedures. Texas Natural Resources Code Chapter 31, §31.1611 and §31.166, Chapter 34, §34.0135, Chapter 40, Chapter 51, §51.076, §51.3021, and Chapter 52, §52.135 are affected by these adopted rulemaking actions.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208485

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter C. PROCEDURES FOR SPECIAL BOARD OF REVIEW HEARINGS

31 TAC §§2.40 - 2.50

The new Chapter 2, Subchapter C, relating to Procedures for Special Board of Review Hearings, §§2.40-2.50 is adopted under Texas Natural Resources Code §31.166(b) that provides the GLO the authority to promulgate rules regarding the Special Board of Review hearings. Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 31, §31.1611 and §31.166, Chapter 34, §34.0135, Chapter 40, Chapter 51, §51.3021 and Chapter 52, §52.135 are affect by these adopted rulemaking actions.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208486

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Chapter 3. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subchapter E. PURCHASING

31 TAC §3.50

The General Land Office (GLO) adopts new 31 TAC Chapter 3, Subchapter E, relating to Purchasing, including §3.50, related to Procedures for Formal Protest of Purchase Contracts, without changes to the text, as published in the November 1, 2002, issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10346) and will not be republished. The adopted Chapter 3, Subchapter E, relating to Purchasing, contains rules that relate to GLO's purchasing procedures. The adopted §3.50 provides the procedures any bidder, offeror or contractor uses to formally protest the solicitation, evaluation, or award of a purchase contract by the GLO. This section provides the information that must be contained in a properly submitted formal protest and the process that will be followed after the formal protest submission. The adopted §3.50 also provides the procedures the commissioner of the GLO shall follow to make a final determination in a properly submitted formal protest, provides the retention period for all documents received as part of the formal protest, and specifies the outcome of a protest that fails to meet the requirements of this rule. The rules governing these procedures contained in Chapter 1, Subchapter F, §1.79, related to Procedures for Formal Protests of Purchase Contracts, are simultaneously adopted for repeal in a separate rulemaking action.

Under Texas Government Code, §2155.076 the GLO is required to develop and adopt protest procedures for resolving vendor protests relating to purchasing issues. Adopted §3.50 fulfills this requirement. Chapter 3, relating to General Provisions, contains rules governing general services, activities and procedures the GLO provides. Adopted §3.50 applies to all contracts the agency awards and therefore it contains general provisions similar to those contained in other sections of this chapter. The adoption of §3.50 creates more logically organized rules and clarifies the legal procedures available to parties protesting the GLO procedures for awarding purchase contracts.

No comments were received regarding the adoption of new 31 TAC Chapter 3, Subchapter E, §3.50.

31 TAC Chapter 3, Subchapter E, §3.50 is adopted under §2155.076 of the Texas Government Code that requires each state agency to develop and adopt protest procedures for resolving vendor protests relating to purchasing issues.

Texas Government Code Chapter 2155, Subchapter B is affected by this adopted rulemaking action.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208487

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Chapter 4. GENERAL RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

The General Land Office (GLO) adopts the repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 4, relating to General Rules of Practice and Procedure, including Subchapter A, §§4.11-4.16; Subchapter B, §§4.21-4.25; Subchapter C, §§4.41-4.43; Subchapter D, §§4.51-4.55; Subchapter E, §§4.61-4.69; Subchapter F, §§4.81-4.83; Subchapter G, §§4.91-4.99; Subchapter H, §§4.111-4.120; Subchapter I, §§4.130-4.137, Subchapter J, §§4.151-4.153; Subchapter K, §§4.161-4.166; and Subchapter L, §§4.171-4.175, without changes, as published in the November 1, 2002, issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10347) and will not be re-published. Chapter 4 governs the procedures of a contested case hearing relating to royalty audits.

The GLO adopts the repeal of Chapter 4, relating to General Rules of Practice and Procedure, in order to consolidate its rules relating to contested case hearings into one chapter, Chapter 2, relating to Rules of Practice and Procedure. Generally, the GLO's contested case hearings are held at the State Office of Administrative Hearings. Texas Government Code, §2001.004 requires adoption of rules for formal proceedings. The GLO adopts the repeal of Chapter 4 as these rules are duplicative of the contested case hearing rules in the simultaneously adopted Chapter 2, Subchapter A related to Procedures for Contested Case Hearings. These rules contain the contested case hearing procedures that apply to the hearings for royalty audits. Consolidating the hearing rules into one chapter creates rules that are more logically organized and easier to use.

Comments:

One comment was received from an individual regarding the proposed repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 4. The person asked how §4.115, relating to Reporters and Transcripts, dealt with court reporters and transcripts and why it is being repealed?

Response: Section 4.115(a) provides that all contested cases were to be recorded on audio tape or cassette or by an official or licensed court reporter. The transcripts of the hearings are to be available upon written request by any party and that party is responsible for the cost of the transcript. The transcript must be purchased from the official reporter. Section 4.115(b) governs the procedures to be used when an error is claimed in the transcript.

As explained above, 31 TAC Chapter 4 is being repealed because it is duplicative of the rules in 31 TAC Chapter 2 proposed Subchapter A, as these rules apply to the royalty audit hearings in Chapter 4. The rules in Chapter 2 supplement the procedures required by the Administrative Procedures Act, Chapter 2001, Government Code. Specifically §2001.059 provides for written transcripts of the contested case hearings. Additionally, the rules created under this chapter, 31 TAC Chapter 155, §155.43 provide for transcripts of the contested case hearings. Therefore the repealed provisions in 31 TAC Chapter 4 are provided for in the legislation and rules that govern contested case hearings applicable to royalty audit hearings.

Subchapter A. DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL PROVISIONS

31 TAC §§4.11 - 4.16

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter A relating to Definitions and General Provisions is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that authorizes the GLO to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208488

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter B. INITIATION OF GENERAL LAND OFFICE ACTION

31 TAC §§4.21 - 4.25

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter B relating to Initiation of General Land Office Action is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208489

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter C. REQUEST FOR HEARING AND STATEMENT OF GROUNDS

31 TAC §§4.41 - 4.43

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter C relating to Request for Hearing and Statement of Grounds is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that authorizes the GLO to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208490

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter D. PARTIES

31 TAC §§4.51 - 4.55

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter D relating to Parties is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208491

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter E. PLEADINGS

31 TAC §§4.61 - 4.69

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter E relating to Pleadings is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208492

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter F. DOCKETING AND NOTICE

31 TAC §§4.81 - 4.83

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter F relating to Docketing and Notice is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208493

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter G. PREHEARING PROCEEDINGS

31 TAC §§4.91 - 4.99

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter G relating to Prehearing Proceedings is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208494

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter H. HEARINGS

31 TAC §§4.111 - 4.120

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter H relating to Hearings is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208495

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter I. EVIDENCE

31 TAC §§4.130 - 4.137

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter I relating to Evidence is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208496

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter J. EXAMINER'S PROPOSALS FOR DECISION AND RELATED ACTIONS

31 TAC §§4.151 - 4.153

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter J relating to Examiner's Proposal for Decision and Related Actions is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for redetermination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208497

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter K. COMMISSIONER'S ORDERS

31 TAC §§4.161 - 4.166

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter K relating to Commissioner's Orders is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208498

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter L. ANCILLARY PROCEEDINGS AND PROCEEDINGS BEYOND THE ORDER

31 TAC §§4.171 - 4.175

The repeal of Chapter 4, Subchapter L relating to Ancillary Proceedings and Proceedings Beyond the Order is adopted under of the Texas Natural Resources Code §31.051(3), that provides the GLO with the authorization to promulgate rules for the agency that are consistent with the law; §52.135 that allows a lessee under this statute to request a hearing for re-determination of the audit billing notice and §52.137 that provides that a lessee may bring suit against the commissioner in Travis County if the lessee has waived the right to request a hearing or who disagrees with the commissioners final order following such a hearing.

Texas Natural Resource Code Chapter 52, §§52.131-52.140, is affected by the adoption of the repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208499

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Chapter 13. LAND RESOURCES

The General Land Office (the GLO) adopts the repeal of 31 TAC Chapter 13, Subchapter C, relating to Special Board of Review Hearings, §§13.30-13.40; the repeal of Subchapter D, relating to Administration and Management of Public Free School Land and Coastal Public Lands, §§13.51-13.54; and the repeal of Subchapter E, relating to Land Sales-Preferential Right to Purchase Certain Former SuperConducting Super Collider Tracts, §§13.60-13.67, without changes, as published in the November 1, 2002, issue of the Texas Register (27 TexReg 10351 ) and will not be republished.

Texas Government Code, §2001.004, relating to Requirement to Adopt Rules of Practice and Index Rules, Orders and Decisions, requires the GLO to adopt rules for its hearing procedures. The GLO is consolidating its hearing procedures into one chapter, Chapter 2, relating to Rules of Practice and Procedure, through concurrent repeals and adoptions of several subchapters and sections. The GLO adopts the repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter C, relating to Special Board of Review Hearings and is simultaneously adopting in a separate rulemaking action, a new Chapter 2, Subchapter C, relating to Procedures for Special Board of Review Hearings, §§2.40-2.50, to consolidate its hearing procedures. This consolidation creates rules that are more logically organized and easier to use.

The GLO is adopting the repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter D, relating to Administration and Management of Public Free School Land and Coastal Public Lands, to consolidate hearing procedures under the simultaneously adopted new Chapter 2, Subchapter B, relating to Procedures for Non-Contested Case Hearings. The adopted Chapter 2, Subchapter B provides the procedures for hearings and meetings before the School Land Board, the Boards for Lease and the Special Board of Review that are not contested case hearings. The GLO adopts the repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter D, as these rules are duplicative of the rules adopted in Chapter 2, Subchapter B. The hearing procedures in the adopted Chapter 2, Subchapter B are applicable to the public hearings governed by the rules currently contained in Chapter 13, Subchapter D and these sections are no longer necessary.

The GLO is adopting the repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter E, relating to Land Sales-Preferential Right to Purchase Certain Former Superconducting Super Collider Tracts in order to eliminate unnecessary rules. The GLO has completed all of its sales of land that were previously conveyed to the state for use as the superconducting super collider research facililty under Texas Natural Resources Code, §31.309. These rules are no longer necessary as there will be no other land sales governed by these rules.

No comments were received regarding the adoption of the repeals of 31 TAC Chapter 13, §§13.30-13.40, §§13.51-13.54, §§13.60-13.67 31 TAC §§13.30 - 13.40

Subchapter C. SPECIAL BOARD OF REVIEW HEARINGS

31 TAC §§13.30 - 13.40

The repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter C, relating to Special Board of Review Hearings is adopted under §31.166(b) of the Texas Natural Resources Code that authorizes the GLO to promulgate rules regarding the Special Board of Review hearings.

Texas Natural Resources Code §§31.161-31.167 are affected by the adopted repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208500

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter D. ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC FREE SCHOOL LANDS AND COASTAL PUBLIC LANDS

31 TAC §§13.51 - 13.54

The repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter D, relating to Administration and Management of Public Free School Land and Coastal Public Lands is adopted under §31.051 that authorizes the GLO to make and enforce rules consistent with the law.

Texas Natural Resources Code §32.016 and §33.055 are affected by the adopted repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2002.

TRD-200208501

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 9, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129


Subchapter E. LAND SALES--PREFERENTIAL RIGHT TO PURCHASE CERTAIN FORMER SUPERCONDUCTING SUPER COLLIDER TRACTS

31 TAC §§13.60 - 13.67

The repeal of Chapter 13, Subchapter E, relating to Land Sales-Preferential Right to Purchase Certain Former Superconducting and Super Collider Tracts is adopted under §31.309(d) that authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules necessary to implement Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 31, Subchapter G, §§31.301-31.309.

Texas Natural Resources Code §§31.301-31.309 are affected by the adopted repeal of these sections.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 31, 2002.

TRD-200208584

Larry Soward

Chief Clerk

General Land Office

Effective date: January 20, 2003

Proposal publication date: November 1, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-9129