Relating to protection of energy critical infrastructure from electromagnetic, geomagnetic, physical, and cyber-attack threats.
Impact
By mandating assessments and the development of security protocols, SB83 potentially transforms the landscape of energy infrastructure protection within Texas. It obligates owners and operators of critical energy facilities to enhance their preparedness for various threats, including electromagnetic and cyber-attacks. These measures are intended to fortify the state’s response to potential threats that could disrupt energy delivery and overall infrastructure stability, thereby significantly impacting how these entities operate and plan for emergencies.
Summary
SB83, titled 'Relating to protection of energy critical infrastructure from electromagnetic, geomagnetic, physical, and cyber-attack threats,' aims to enhance the security of Texas' energy critical infrastructure. The bill establishes several measures, including the formation of the Electromagnetic Threat Preparedness Task Force, charged with assessing threats and creating a comprehensive protection and recovery plan. It applies to entities involved in power generation and distribution, ensuring they report vulnerabilities to the Texas Division of Emergency Management by a specified deadline.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB83 appears largely supportive, particularly among those prioritizing national and state infrastructure security. Proponents argue that the bill proactively addresses vulnerabilities in the energy sector that could be exploited by malicious entities. However, there may also be concerns regarding the additional regulatory burdens placed on energy providers and the confidentiality of information collected, which could limit transparency about grid security measures.
Contention
Noteworthy points of contention revolve around the balance between security and transparency. The bill stipulates that information related to grid security is confidential and not subject to public disclosure, which raises questions about accountability and the potential for abuse of this confidentiality. Critics may argue that while security is paramount, excessive secrecy could hinder oversight and public trust in how energy infrastructure is being protected against significant threats.
Relating to homeland security, including the creation of the Texas Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety, the operations of the Homeland Security Council, the creation of a homeland security fusion center, and the duties of state agencies and local governments in preparing for, reporting, and responding to cybersecurity breaches; providing administrative penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to creating a criminal offense for damaging certain critical infrastructure facilities and providing for the prosecution of that conduct as manslaughter in certain circumstances; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to the creation and uses of the critical infrastructure resiliency fund and the eligibility of certain water-related projects for state financial assistance.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the southern border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to a study by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas on securing critical infrastructure from electromagnetic, geomagnetic, terrorist, and cyber-attack threats.