Relating to information maintained by certain municipally owned utilities that provide electricity services and cable, Internet, or broadband services.
Impact
The enactment of SB 983 is expected to impact transparency regulations for municipally owned utilities. By enforcing separate accounts for broadband service operations, the bill seeks to prevent the cross-subsidization between electric and broadband services. This means that utilities will have to be more diligent in showcasing the operational costs associated with each service, promoting accountability and clearer consumer pricing. The intent is to bolster consumer trust in pricing structures and the operational efficiencies of these services.
Summary
Senate Bill 983 amends various sections of the Government Code and Local Government Code regarding the information maintained by municipally owned utilities that provide electricity and broadband services. Specifically, it sets forth definitions and conditions under which certain competitive matters related to utility services, including customer billing and pricing information, may be kept confidential. This bill aims to establish clearer boundaries for the disclosure of competitive information while ensuring that the rates charged for electric service do not incorporate costs related to broadband services.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 983 appears largely positive among utility providers, as it offers a clear framework within which they can operate competitively without the fear of compromising proprietary information. However, there are concerns from some consumer advocacy groups regarding the potential implications for customer privacy and the access to information. The key stakeholders seem to appreciate the need for competitive safeguards, although there is a notable tension between transparency and the protection of sensitive operational information.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns raised during discussions about the implications of maintaining customer data confidentiality. Opponents have argued that while competition is important for consumer choice, the bill could potentially allow utilities to hide information that is essential for consumers to make informed decisions. The discussions highlighted a balancing act between fostering a competitive environment and ensuring that customer rights to information and transparency are not undermined.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 552. Public Information
Section: 133
Section: 133
Section: 133
Section: 133
Section: 133
Local Government Code
Chapter 552. Municipal Utilities
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: 915
Section: New Section
Utilities Code
Chapter 181. Miscellaneous Powers And Duties Of Utilities
Identical
Relating to disclosure under the public information law of information related to a competitive matter involving the provision of cable, Internet, or broadband services by a public power utility.
Relating to disclosure under the public information law of information related to a competitive matter involving the provision of cable, Internet, or broadband services by a public power utility.
Relating to the applicability of the public information law, including the disclosure of information in the possession, custody, or control of certain governmental bodies.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.