Railroad Commission of Texas voted at its meeting this week to allow companies to store crude oil underground in places other than salt caverns. “This order does not suspend any rule that protects public safety, health or the prevention of pollution,” chairman Wayne Christian said Tuesday. Associated Press said the new rule, proposed by the oil recovery task force, requires companies to show that the formation is confined to prevent waste or uncontrolled escape of crude oil. The exemption is for one year, and the oil must be removed within five years. Environmental groups said the move “could lead to serious environmental consequences.” Commissioners also voted to waive various fees and surcharges.