TX
Texas House Bill HB5558

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5558

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

Caption

Relating to the board of directors of certain public utility agencies.

Impact

If passed, HB5558 would amend existing statutes that govern how public utility agencies operate in terms of their board of directors. This could lead to a more standardized approach in board governance, which might help in optimizing decision-making processes within public utilities. Supporters of the bill believe that this will not only improve operational transparency but also enhance service delivery to customers by ensuring that utility agencies are more responsive to public needs and regulatory standards.

Summary

House Bill 5558 relates to the governance structure of certain public utility agencies by modifying the operations of their boards of directors. This bill aims to clarify and potentially enhance the efficiency of utility management by changing the composition, responsibilities, and operations of such boards. Proponents argue that these changes are necessary for improving accountability and responsiveness of public utilities to their customers, thereby fostering better utility services across the state.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, there are concerns regarding the implications of increasing the state’s influence over local public utility boards. Critics, including some local government officials and public advocacy groups, argue that such a centralization could diminish local input and flexibility. They fear that by altering the board structure, local needs and specificities may not be adequately represented, thus potentially overlooking unique challenges or requirements faced by different communities. Activists point out that decisions made at the state level might not align well with local priorities, possibly undermining the effectiveness of utility services in some areas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Local Government Code

  • Chapter 572. Public Utility Agencies For Provision Of Water Or Sewer Service
    • Section: 057

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2441

Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4217

Relating to the powers of certain public utility agencies; granting the power of eminent domain.

TX HB4943

Relating to the election of directors in certain special utility districts.

TX HB2912

Relating to the election of the board of directors of the San Jacinto River Authority.

TX HB5411

Relating to the board of directors and powers and duties of the Twinwood Municipal Utility District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB2701

Relating to public utility agencies; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments.

TX SB1188

Relating to receivership of the Agua Special Utility District and requirements for directors of the Agua Special Utility District.

TX HB1525

Relating to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority, following the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering terms of the board of directors; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX SB2592

Relating to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority, following the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering terms of the board of directors; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX HB1793

Relating to the qualifications for serving as a member of the board of directors of a municipal utility district.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.