BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2576

By: Thompson, Senfronia

State Affairs

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Informed observers note that Texas is experiencing tremendous growth in electric transmission and distribution service demand and that there is a continuing need to provide for periodic electric utility rate adjustments. H.B. 2576 seeks to make permanent statutory provisions providing for periodic adjustments to electric rates.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 2576 repeals Sections 36.210(h) and (h-1), Utilities Code, which require the Public Utility Commission of Texas to conduct certain studies analyzing electric rates and to report on the findings of those studies, and Section 36.210(i), Utilities Code, which sets statutory provisions providing for periodic adjustments to electric rates to expire September 1, 2019.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2017.