Orphan Well Grant Flexibility Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Orphan Well Grant Flexibility Act of 2025, amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to provide states with greater flexibility regarding methane emission measurement for orphan well plugging grants. It explicitly states that states are not required to measure methane emissions or conduct related activities as a condition for grant eligibility. Furthermore, while estimates for methane emissions may include pre- or post-plugging monitoring data, states are not mandated to collect such data using grant funds. The legislation also directs the Secretary of the Interior to commission a comprehensive study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. This study will examine the community impacts of orphan well plugging and remediation activities, focusing on effects on economic development, housing trends, and other potential benefits like improved water quality. The National Academies must consult with agencies like the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, ensuring diverse regional input, and will submit a detailed report to Congress.