Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1164

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

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

The implementation of SB1164 is expected to significantly bolster consumer protections in the utility sector, particularly for residential users and small businesses. By formally recognizing the role of the OPUC in various proceedings, the bill aims to address concerns regarding utility rate hikes and service disputes. The OPUC is granted the authority to intervene as needed, ensuring that consumer perspectives are represented in a regulatory landscape that can often overshadow individual consumer rights. This empowerment could lead to more equitable outcomes in decisions made by the TCEQ regarding utilities.

Summary

SB1164 is a bill that expands the powers and duties of the Office of Public Utility Counsel (OPUC) in Texas. Its primary aim is to ensure that the interests of residential and small commercial consumers are adequately represented in matters concerning water or sewer utility services. This representation occurs during proceedings before the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), an agency responsible for the state's environmental regulation. The bill mandates that the OPUC assess utility rate changes and advocate for consumer interests, thereby enhancing consumer advocacy and oversight in regulatory processes.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1164 has been positive among its supporters, who view it as a necessary enhancement to consumer protection laws. Advocates argue that increased representation will help protect vulnerable consumer groups against unfair utility practices. Conversely, some skepticism has emerged regarding the bill’s execution and the adequacy of resources for the OPUC to fulfill its enhanced responsibilities. Critics highlight potential concerns about whether the OPUC can effectively manage its expanded duties without additional funding or support.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the potential for increased bureaucracy and the effectiveness of the OPUC in advocating for consumer interests in a complex regulatory environment. Some stakeholders fear that without sufficient resources and structured oversight, the bill could lead to inefficiencies rather than improvements in consumer representation. The legislation also raises questions about balancing regulatory authority with the genuine needs of the consumer base, highlighting the ongoing debate about the proper scope of governmental powers in utility regulation.

Companion Bills

TX HB3382

Identical 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.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2441

Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.

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 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 SB24

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB5302

Relating to the review of the duties of a groundwater conservation district by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB4049

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB1585

Relating to matters affecting the powers and duties of the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX SB317

Relating to appellate jurisdiction of the Public Utility Commission regarding certain water or sewer service fees.

TX SB1397

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB5397

Relating to the name, powers, and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District.

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