Bill > SB75

This bill establishes the Texas Grid Security Commission to comprehensively evaluate and improve the resilience of the electric grid and critical infrastructure, particularly in response to the devastating power outages in Texas during February 2011 and 2021. The commission will be composed of representatives from various state agencies and organizations, and will have a broad mandate to assess threats to the electric grid from a wide range of hazards, including extreme weather, cyber attacks, electromagnetic pulses, and physical sabotage. Key responsibilities include conducting detailed evaluations of grid vulnerience, recommending resilience standards for municipalities and critical infrastructure, developing a plan to protect infrastructure from potential power outages, and preparing annual reports to the legislature. The bill requires commission members to obtain security clearances, creates provisions for maintaining confidential information, and mandates the development of a comprehensive plan by December 1, 2026, that includes recommendations for weatherization, cybersecurity improvements, and protection against electromagnetic pulses. Additionally, the bill requires the Public Utility Commission and ERCOT to conduct regular simulated exercises to test grid reliability and preparedness, with a focus on identifying roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in the event of a critical infrastructure threat.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB75