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


Senate Research CenterC.S.S.B. 168
76R8727 WP-FBy: Armbrister
Economic Development
4/28/1999
Committee Report (Substituted)
            

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. C.S.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, C.S.S.B. 168 authorizes 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. Provides that this section applies only to a river authority that
is engaged in the distribution and sale of electric energy to the public.
Sets forth services that a river authority may provide.  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. Prohibits the provisions of this section from relieving
a river authority from an obligation to comply with the provisions of the
Utilities Code concerning a certificate of convenience and necessity for a
transmission facility.  

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

SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE CHANGES

SECTION 1. 

Amends Section 4C, Chapter 245, Article 717p V.T.C.S., to set forth
services that a river authority may provide. Prohibits the provisions of
this section from relieving a river authority from an obligation to comply
with the provisions of the Utilities Code concerning a certificate of
convenience and necessity for a transmission facility. Deletes the
definition of "electric transmission facilities." Deletes text providing
that this section does not authorize a river authority to serve as a common
carrier of telecommunications services.