SRC-ARR S.B. 168 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 168
76R3009 WP-DBy: Armbrister
Economic Development
4/27/1999
As Filed
            

DIGEST 

Currently, the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) may not build, own, or
operate electric transmission lines outside the area served by LCRA
electric transmission lines on January 1, 1975. S.B. 168 would allow a
river authority engaged in the distribution and sale of electric energy to
the public to provide electric transmission services, and to acquire and
operate electric transmission facilities, within or outside of the river
authority's boundaries. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 168 relates to the provision of electric transmission
services by a river authority. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 245, Article 717p V.T.C.S, by adding Section 4C,
as follows: 

Sec. 4C. Defines  "electric transmission facilities." Provides that this
section apply only to a river authority that is engaged in the distribution
and sale of electric energy to the public. Provides that this section does
not authorize a river authority to serve as a common carrier of
telecommunications services.  Sets forth provisions that a river authority
may authorize. Provides that this section does not authorize a river
authority to construct electric transmission facilities for an ultimate
consumer of electricity to enable that consumer to bypass the transmission
or distribution facilities of its existing provider. 

SECTION 2. Emergency clause.
                      Effective date: upon passage.