Texas House Bill HB3791

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the powers and duties of the Texas Electric Grid Security and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council.

Impact

The bill amends the Utilities Code to set clear responsibilities and powers for the advisory council, allowing them to develop recommendations for improved security measures. Specifically, the council is expected to work on compiling data related to grid security, generate reports on security responses, and ensure that best practices are disseminated across the electric utility landscape. This amendment also includes provisions for confidentiality regarding sensitive information collected by the council, indicating a proactive approach to secure critical infrastructure from potential exploits.

Summary

House Bill 3791 establishes the Texas Electric Grid Security and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council, aimed at enhancing the security and emergency preparedness of the electric grid in Texas. This council is tasked with overseeing best practices for protecting the electric infrastructure from various threats including cyberattacks, terrorism, and natural disasters. The establishment of this council signifies a legislative response to growing concerns about the reliability of the state's electric systems in the face of both man-made and natural emergencies.

Contention

While the bill promotes significant measures for enhancing grid security and emergency preparedness, it also raises questions regarding oversight and transparency, given its exempt status from public disclosure laws. Some lawmakers may raise concerns about the balance between necessary confidentiality and public accountability when it comes to safeguarding Texas' electric supply. Furthermore, with the council's recommendations to be based on both internal and external guidance, there may be debates about the adequacy and independence of the advisory council’s findings and their implications for state-wide energy policy.