Relating to the relocation of utilities on certain highways and county roads.
Impact
The proposed bill would amend the Utilities Code, particularly sections that govern the responsibilities of utilities concerning roadway improvements. It provides a framework for counties to request the relocation of utility facilities and outlines procedures for notifying utilities of such requirements. The implications of this bill may lead to an expedited process for roadway improvements, as utilities would be compelled to comply swiftly with relocation requests issued by county governments, thereby reducing potential delays in public projects.
Summary
House Bill 3787 addresses the relocation of utilities on state highways and county roads in Texas. The bill mandates that gas and electric utilities, as well as water supply and sewer service corporations, are required to relocate their facilities at their own expense when a county projects necessitate such actions. These projects can include the widening of right-of-ways, changing traffic lanes, or improving roadbeds. The bill aims to streamline the process of relocating utility services while enhancing transportation safety and efficiency on public roadways.
Contention
Notably, there are concerns surrounding the financial implications for utility companies, which must bear the costs of relocation. This could disproportionately affect smaller utilities that may struggle with the financial burden of complying with the bill. Additionally, there may be discussions on the appropriateness of the state mandating such requirements without providing assistance or compensation for the costs incurred by the utilities. Furthermore, the bill raises questions about the accountability mechanisms if utility companies fail to comply with relocation notices and any resulting delays in roadway projects.
Relating to the Harris County Flood Control District and the transfer to it of the assets, programs, and facilities of the Harris County Toll Road Authority; providing for the appointment of the governing body.
Relating to information maintained by certain municipally owned utilities that provide electricity services and cable, Internet, or broadband services.
Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the approval and creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; and to the administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the district, including the authority to impose an assessment, a tax, and issue bonds.
Preapplication filings for large water appropriation projects required, permit application information for large water appropriation projects added, level of environmental review for data centers specified, data centers exempted from making financial contributions to an energy conservation and optimization plan, and other data center provisions modified.
Energy; biennial budget established for Department of Commerce, Public Utilities Commission, and energy, climate, and clean energy activities; energy and utility regulation provisions established and modified; enhanced transportation electrification provided; various clean and renewable energy grant programs established; reports required; and money appropriated.
Electric utility renewable energy standard obligations modified, cost recovery provided, wind projects exempted from certificate of need proceedings, low-voltage transmission line included in solar energy generating system definition, local energy employment provisions added, and Public Utility Commission permit authority modified for electric generation facilities.