Texas House Bill HB1182

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/31/09
• Voted on by House: 5/12/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09

Caption

Relating to the administration and purposes of the system benefit fund and the eligibility of customers for benefits under certain programs financed by the system benefit fund and other programs.

Impact

The implications of HB1182 are significant for the regulatory framework surrounding electric utilities in Texas. By enabling the Public Utility Commission of Texas to administer and allocate funds from the system benefit fund, the bill seeks to make funding more accessible for programs that support low-income households. This could lead to improved energy affordability for vulnerable populations and contribute to a more supportive environment for low-income customers within the retail electric market.

Summary

House Bill 1182 focuses on the administration and purposes of the system benefit fund in Texas. It aims to update the eligibility of customers for benefits under various programs financed by this fund. One major change introduced by HB1182 is the establishment of a nonbypassable fee applied to retail electric customers that supports programs for low-income households. The bill seeks to directly assist these customers by enhancing funding for programs that provide reduced electric rates and bill payment assistance aimed at preventing disconnections due to nonpayment, especially for households with seriously ill individuals.

Contention

Despite the benefits presented by HB1182, points of contention may arise regarding the effective allocation of the nonbypassable fee and its impact on all customers. Critics might express concerns over potential increases in electric bills for other rates due to this fee, alongside the adequacy of the resources directed towards low-income assistance. Furthermore, discussions about the balance between ensuring sufficient funding for necessary programs and maintaining broad customer affordability could become a focal point of debate among stakeholders in the electric market.