Bill > SB2013

This bill amends the Texas Business & Commerce Code and Government Code to enhance the security of critical infrastructure, particularly the electric grid. The key provisions include: 1. Defining "affiliate" for companies involved in electric grid equipment agreements to align with the protocols of the independent organization (ERCOT) that oversees the state's power region. 2. Allowing the ERCOT independent organization to obtain criminal history and background information for employees and contractors whose roles are critical to electric grid security. 3. Requiring the ERCOT independent organization to verify that business entities operating in its power region comply with laws regarding transactions with certain foreign-owned companies related to critical infrastructure. 4. Authorizing the ERCOT independent organization to suspend or terminate a company's registration or access if it has reasonable suspicion the company meets certain criteria that could pose a threat to critical infrastructure. 5. Directing the Public Utility Commission to adopt any necessary rules to implement these new security measures. The bill applies to contracts and agreements entered into on or after the effective date, and includes provisions for reporting and mitigating past purchases of critical electric grid equipment.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=88R&Bill=SB2013