For Immediate Release
Press Contact: Douglas Cormier
cheektexascommunityassociation@gmail.com
Cheek, Texas — During the August 18, 2026 open meeting, the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) postponed consideration of ExxonMobil’s proposed Rose Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) permit, delaying further action on the application.
If approved, the Rose CCS project would be among the first Class VI carbon storage permits considered by the RRC since Texas assumed oversight authority for Class VI underground injection wells in December 2025.
ExxonMobil’s Rose CCS project would inject up to 53 million tons of carbon dioxide underground, with the affected area reaching into parts of Cheek, TX where people live and own property. Residents say they are being asked to bear the risk while the technology is still being tested, and they want sound, site-specific evidence — not just computer modeling — that their water, homes, and community will be protected.
“When the risks include irreversible consequences, ‘probably safe’ isn’t good enough. You don’t get a second chance after millions of tons of CO₂ are injected underground. For these reasons, the Cheek Texas Community Association is calling on the Railroad Commission to remand the permit application to staff until the outstanding safety, transparency, and community concerns are fully addressed.”
—Douglas Cormier, President, Cheek Texas Community Association
“Communities deserve a seat at the table to discuss the protections needed to safeguard their families. This is a new type of underground injection well for Texas, and people are concerned. This permit should go back to the Railroad Commission to ensure the safety of Texans is prioritized.”
—Jen Powis, Managing Attorney, Earthjustice Gulf Regional Office
The Cheek Texas Community Association is urging Commissioners to resolve the outstanding safety, transparency, technical, and community concerns before taking final action.The Rose CCS permit is currently scheduled to return to the Railroad Commission agenda on September 15, 2026.
For further questions or inquiries please reach out to cheektexascommunityassociation@gmail.com.
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