Texas House Bill HB3754

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/2/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Voted on by House: 5/15/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Report Pass: 4/20/11
• Engrossed: 5/15/11
• Refer: 5/16/11

Caption

Relating to powers and duties of the Office of Public Utility Counsel to represent residential and small commercial consumers in certain water or sewer utility service matters before the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Impact

This legislation fundamentally shifts how utility consumer representation is structured within Texas state law. It empowers the PUC to assess the impact of utility rate changes and regulatory actions directly affecting residential and small commercial consumers. This could lead to more informed decisions by the commission regarding utility services and rates, potentially resulting in better outcomes for consumers. Additionally, the PUC is granted authority to recommend legislation that aligns with consumer interests, thereby increasing its influence in legislative discussions.

Summary

House Bill 3754 seeks to enhance the powers and responsibilities of the Office of Public Utility Counsel (PUC) to advocate for residential and small commercial utility consumers specifically in matters involving water and sewer services. The bill mandates that the PUC represent the interests of these consumers before the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring they have a voice in relevant proceedings. By broadening the scope of representation, the bill aims to better safeguard consumer interests in the often complex utility regulatory landscape.

Contention

Notably, the passage of HB 3754 could lead to tensions between various stakeholders involved in utility services. Proponents argue that strengthening consumer representation will lead to fairer utility rates and more accountability from service providers. However, critics may raise concerns about whether the expanded powers of the PUC could inadvertently lead to regulatory overreach or inefficiencies within the TCEQ, particularly if excessive disputes arise prioritizing consumer advocacy over utility operational needs. Balancing these interests will be crucial as the bill is implemented.