Texas House Bill HB3378

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to an advisory body on the security of the electric grid.

Impact

The bill aims to bolster the state's capability to prevent and respond to potential security threats affecting the electric grid. The establishment of the council would facilitate coordination between various stakeholders in the electric industry, including state agencies and federal entities such as the Department of Energy and Department of Homeland Security. Furthermore, the council will have the authority to recommend strategies for workforce development in grid security and propose amendments to the state emergency management plan to ensure a cohesive response to threats.

Summary

House Bill 3378 proposes the establishment of the Texas Electric Grid Security Council, which would serve as an advisory body dedicated to enhancing the security of Texas's electric grid against both cyber and physical threats. The bill emphasizes the public interest in ensuring the reliability of electric systems and mandates the council to develop and disseminate best security practices across the electric industry. This move is seen as timely given the increasing concerns over attacks on critical infrastructure.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB3378 appears to be generally supportive among legislators and stakeholders who recognize the importance of securing the electric grid. Supporters argue that the establishment of this council is a proactive step towards enhancing grid reliability and public safety. However, there may be concerns regarding the operational details of the council, especially how it will coordinate with existing regulatory frameworks and the level of transparency in its operations, given that its meetings and records are exempt from public disclosure laws.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention may revolve around the council's ability to access and handle sensitive information, highlighted by provisions for council members to obtain security clearances. This aspect raises questions about the balance between necessary security measures and public accountability. Additionally, the bill’s exemption from the Texas Government Code regarding public meetings and records could lead to debates about transparency and citizen oversight over decisions that significantly impact energy security.