Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB602

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

Caption

Relating to retail electric provider customer choice information.

Impact

The implications of SB602 would be significant for consumer protection and the regulation of retail electric utilities in Texas. By requiring regular updates and accessible complaint records, the bill promotes accountability among retail electric providers and helps consumers make informed decisions about their electricity services. This transparency may lead to better service standards across the industry and foster competitive practices among providers.

Summary

SB602 is a legislative measure aimed at enhancing transparency and customer choice in the retail electric service sector in Texas. The bill mandates the Public Utility Commission to provide detailed information on customer complaints and enforcement actions against retail electric providers through a dedicated online portal. This information includes complaints received, any enforcement actions initiated, and the outcomes of those actions, all aimed at empowering consumers with knowledge about their service providers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB602 appears generally positive, particularly among consumer rights advocates who see the legislation as a step towards greater accountability in the utility sector. Proponents argue that informed consumers can lead to improved service delivery and accountability, thereby enhancing overall market efficiency. However, there may be some concerns from retail electric providers regarding the administrative burden of compliance with reporting requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise concerning the specifics of how complaints and enforcement actions are recorded and presented online. While the bill aims to make information easily accessible and anonymized, debates may occur over what constitutes a fair and comprehensive representation of consumer feedback. Stakeholders, including utility companies and consumer advocacy groups, may have differing opinions on the effectiveness and implications of such transparency measures within the dynamic energy market.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3078

Relating to a program to provide assistance for certain retail electric customers.

TX SB1170

Relating to the initiation of customer choice by municipally owned utilities that provide electric service.

TX HB4647

Relating to programs to provide assistance for certain electric customers.

TX HB2663

Relating to the initiation of customer choice by municipally owned utilities that provide electric service.

TX SB853

Relating to electricity service provided by certain municipally owned utilities.

TX SB2511

Relating to notice and assistance provided to residential electric customers before electric service is disconnected.

TX HB4209

Relating to electricity service provided by certain municipally owned utilities.

TX HB4002

Relating to water control and improvement district customers of certain electric cooperatives.

TX SB983

Relating to information maintained by certain municipally owned utilities that provide electricity services and cable, Internet, or broadband services.

TX SB1752

Relating to the generation and transmission of electricity.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.