The House Committee on State Affairs

84th Legislature

August 15, 2016

1:00 p.m.

JHR 140

Pursuant to a notice posted on June 15, 2016, the House Committee on State Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Cook, at 1:01 p.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Cook; Giddings; Farrar; Geren; Harless; Huberty; Johnson; Kuempel; and Minjarez.

A quorum was present.

The committee met to address the following interim charges:

Examine procedures regarding contract monitoring, compliance, performance evaluation and notification requirements for state contracting procedures. Include recommendations to determine a "best value" for the state and prevent conflicts of interests. Evaluate guidelines regarding the state's participation in contracts funded by grants and suggest methods to ensure the best use of taxpayer funds.

Evaluate the administrative process used to determine utility rates. Consider if sufficient opportunities exist to ensure customer representation. Also determine if additional legislative guidance is needed to ensure public notification and participation.

Examine how the Public Utility Commission of Texas, when applicable, and utility providers, whether vertically integrated, privately owned, or municipally owned, can ensure consumer protection regarding metering devices for water, gas, and electricity service. Review recent examples of inaccurate or confusing billings and offer recommendations on appropriate consumer recourse and appeal. In addition, assess utility procedures regarding meter installation.

(Representative Smithee now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Farney now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Oliveira now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 4:37 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Cook, Chair

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Toni Barcellona, Clerk