TX
Texas House Bill HB2133

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2133

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/13/11  
Introduced
3/3/11  
Voted on by House
4/27/11  
Refer
3/8/11  
Out of Senate Committee
5/18/11  
Report Pass
4/5/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/25/11  
Engrossed
4/27/11  
Governor Action
6/17/11  
Refer
5/3/11  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Report Pass
5/18/11  
Enrolled
5/26/11  
Enrolled
5/26/11  

Caption

Relating to the Public Utility Commission of Texas' authority to disgorge revenue obtained as a result of certain violations; providing an administrative penalty.

Impact

The introduction of HB2133 is expected to significantly strengthen the regulatory framework governing Texas's electricity market. By allowing for disgorgement, the bill aims to ensure that violators do not benefit financially from their infractions, thereby fostering a more competitive environment. This change is likely to encourage compliance among market participants, as the financial repercussions of violations will be more severe. Moreover, while intended to increase accountability, the bill has potential implications on how market players conduct their business, possibly leading to more cautious operational strategies.

Summary

House Bill 2133 seeks to enhance the authority of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) by empowering it to impose disgorgement orders against entities that violate regulations in the state's electricity market. This bill specifically amends the Utilities Code to introduce provisions that mandate the disgorgement of excess revenues obtained through violations of electricity market rules. The intention is to deter misconduct in the wholesale electric markets by ensuring that any unjustly obtained profits are returned, promoting fairness and compliance within the industry.

Contention

While supporters argue that HB2133 will enhance market integrity and protect consumers from the adverse effects of market abuses, there are concerns surrounding its potential overreach. Opponents worry that the expanded authority given to the PUC could result in excessive penalties and a more burdensome regulatory landscape for utility companies. Additionally, there is apprehension regarding the implications for smaller firms that may struggle to absorb the financial impacts of any disgorgement orders, which could inadvertently stifle competition in the electricity sector.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2011

Relating to the authority of the Public Utility Commission of Texas to impose administrative penalties and enter into voluntary mitigation plans; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4821

Relating to the authority of the Public Utility Commission of Texas to impose administrative penalties and enter into voluntary mitigation plans; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX HB1500

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX HB1412

Relating to the resilience of the electric grid and certain municipalities; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB2459

Relating to the administration of violations and administrative penalties of the employment of children.

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB1368

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region.

TX HB4573

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the commissioner of the General Land Office for a wind power facility on coastal public land; authorizing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB1303

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the commissioner of the General Land Office for a wind power facility on coastal public land; authorizing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB2049

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the Public Utility Commission of Texas for the routing of certain oil or gas pipelines; authorizing administrative penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.