Texas House Bill HB3030

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to notice to customers, governmental entities, and other affected persons after significant interruptions of certain services.

Impact

If enacted, HB3030 mandates that public service providers implement an emergency notification system to inform customers, governmental entities, and other affected persons of these significant interruptions. The requirement to notify customers as quickly as reasonably possible after an interruption occurs will ensure that individuals and organizations impacted are aware of the situation and are provided with crucial information, such as the cause of the interruption and estimated restoration times. This change is expected to enhance transparency and trust between service providers and their customers.

Summary

House Bill 3030 is aimed at improving communication regarding significant interruptions of essential services provided by public service providers in Texas. The bill defines a 'significant interruption of service' as any disruption that affects a considerable portion of customers or a notable community segment, lasting over one hour and requiring effective notification protocols. Specifically, interruptions impacting 20% or more of a service provider's customers—or at least 20,000 customers in larger systems—fall under this definition.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve communication, it may also lead to concerns regarding the feasibility and reliability of such notification systems. Critics of similar proposals have pointed out potential difficulties related to the accuracy and timeliness of notifications in emergencies, as well as the burden it might place on public service providers, who may have to undertake considerable adjustments to their operations to comply with these requirements. The discussion around these provisions underscores a broader tension between customer service improvements and the operational capabilities of public service entities.