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.