The City of Midland, Texas, hosted the 2025 Permian Basin Oil & Gas Legislative Summit on January 9-10 in collaboration with state officials and energy leaders. The event aimed to educate new legislators about the oil and gas industry's significant impact on Texas's economy.
Midland Mayor Lori Blong emphasized the importance of the summit: “The Permian Basin Oil & Gas Legislative Summit gave Texas’ newest legislators firsthand experience into the heart of America’s energy industry. As a global leader in energy production, Midland plays a pivotal role in powering our state and our nation, shaping our economic strength.” She added that the summit equips decision-makers with insights into innovation and responsible energy production.
A study by Ray Perryman and the Midland-Odessa Transportation Alliance highlighted the annual contributions of the Permian Basin to Texas: $470 billion in total expenditures, $129 billion in gross product, $34 billion in personal income, and 508,000 jobs. Energy production from this region accounts for 7.8% of Texas's Private Sector Gross Product.
The summit featured events at various locations including an address by Lance Robertson at the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum on January 9. Other speakers included State Representative Tom Craddick, State Representative Brooks Landgraf, and State Senator Kevin Sparks.
Mayor Blong noted that collaboration among industry leaders is crucial: “By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, we’re building the kind of collaboration that leads to smarter solutions and a stronger future for our region.”
On January 10, a panel discussion took place at Odessa Marriott with participants such as Shankar Annamalai from Champion X and Kaes Van’t Hoff from Diamondback Energy. A luncheon was held at ConocoPhillips' regional headquarters featuring speakers like Tracey Bentley from Permian Strategic Partnership.
ConocoPhillips Vice President Scott Kidwell remarked on their participation: “Midland is at the heart of the state’s oil and gas industry, and it’s important we continue to share our unique story with newly elected officials.”
State officials also toured field locations in the region on January 10.