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.