Texas House Bill HB1156

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to providing a discounted rate for electricity provided to school districts.

Impact

The bill specifically amends Section 36.351 of the Utilities Code to ensure that all electric utilities, including municipal ones, provide discounts to public school districts and designated institutions of higher education. This is intended to create a uniform approach to pricing electricity for educational institutions statewide. By instituting this requirement, the bill seeks to enhance the financial stability of school districts and promote equal access to affordable electricity across Texas, ultimately aiming to support the educational framework.

Summary

House Bill 1156 addresses the issue of electric utility costs for school districts and certain higher education institutions by mandating discounted rates for electricity provided to these entities. The bill aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by schools and colleges regarding their energy expenses, thereby promoting a more favorable operating environment for educational facilities. This legislative move reflects a commitment to support public education through financial relief on utility costs, which can significantly impact a district's budget.

Contention

While many support the intentions behind HB 1156, there may be concerns related to the financial implications for utility providers, particularly municipal ones that may already be providing some form of discount. Opponents may argue that the requirement to discount rates could place additional strain on utility finances, thereby potentially leading to higher costs for other customer classes in the long term. The bill may face scrutiny in terms of its effectiveness in achieving the intended cost-benefit balance—ensuring that schools receive support while not adversely impacting the overall utility pricing structure.