Bill > HB4668

This bill provides the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) with expanded authority to retain professional assistance (such as consultants, accountants, auditors, engineers, or attorneys) for regional proceedings related to electric utilities. Specifically, the bill allows the PUCT to hire such professionals to represent the commission in proceedings involving regional transmission organizations, power regions, or independent system operators, particularly when matters could impact retail customer electricity rates. The bill caps the electric utility's responsibility for these professional services at $1.5 million per 12-month period and requires the utility to pay these costs timely. The utility will be allowed to recover these costs, plus carrying charges, through an annual rider that must be reviewed and approved by the commission. Before retaining such professionals, the PUCT must consult with the attorney general, and the bill prohibits hiring individuals who are required to register as lobbyists. The legislation applies to electric utilities under specific subchapters of Texas utility regulations and will take effect either immediately with a two-thirds legislative vote or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4668