Texas House Bill HB3381

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the maintenance of telephone and electric utility poles.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3381 is expected to bolster public safety by ensuring that utility infrastructures are monitored effectively for wear and potential hazards. This proactive approach to maintenance is critical given the role that utility poles play in delivering essential services. By specifying inspection timelines and necessary actions for damage, the bill aims to prevent failures that could lead to safety incidents or service disruptions, enhancing overall reliability in utility services provided to Texans.

Summary

House Bill 3381 aims to enhance the safety and maintenance regulations concerning telephone and electric utility poles across Texas. The bill mandates that electric and telecommunications utilities conduct regular inspections of wooden transmission and distribution poles to identify damage, with frequency dictated by the type of pole. Specifically, transmission poles are to be inspected every two years, while distribution poles are inspected every eight years. In addition, this legislation requires annual inspections of transmission circuits and outlines the replacement of damaged poles with metal alternatives, especially near critical structures.

Contention

While the bill seeks to improve utility infrastructure safety, there may be concerns regarding the operational costs associated with the mandated inspections and replacements. Utilities may argue that the increased inspection frequency and required upgrades to metal poles could lead to higher costs that might eventually be passed on to consumers. Additionally, some stakeholders may push back against the intrusive nature of regulatory oversight that mandates specific maintenance protocols, advocating for a more flexible approach that allows utility companies discretion in their maintenance practices.