Relating to the sharing and protection of certain utility proprietary customer information.
Impact
The enactment of HB 5145 will amend the Utilities Code, specifically adding Section 17.011, which outlines the necessity for electric utilities to obtain customer data without prior verifiable authorization for the purpose of emergency communication. This legislative change will impact how utilities handle sensitive customer information, pushing for streamlined data sharing during critical times while also enhancing the protection measures for the confidentiality and integrity of the data shared. The bill mandates utilities to establish robust data security practices to safeguard the proprietary customer information they receive.
Summary
House Bill 5145 addresses the sharing and protection of proprietary customer information by retail electric providers in Texas. The bill aims to streamline communication between electric utilities and their customers during emergencies affecting service, interruptions, or restorations. Under the new regulations, retail electric providers are required to provide proprietary customer information that includes names, phone numbers, email addresses, and home addresses to the utility upon request. This information must be provided within 48 hours without needing prior authorization from the customer, which proponents argue is crucial for timely and effective service responses.
Contention
While supporters of the bill advocate that it will enhance emergency responsiveness and improve communication between companies and customers, critics may raise concerns about privacy infringements. The fact that the bill allows utilities to bypass customer authorization could lead to debates regarding individual privacy rights, particularly given the sensitive nature of the information being shared. Further discussions might also arise around the adequacy of data protection measures stipulated in the bill and whether they sufficiently mitigate potential misuse of proprietary customer information.
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.
Relating to information maintained by certain municipally owned utilities that provide electricity services and cable, Internet, or broadband services.
Relating to the protection of personally identifiable student information and the use of covered information by an operator or educational entity; authorizing a civil and administrative penalty.