Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2111

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to reporting by operators of certain gas supply chain facilities and gas pipeline facilities on a failure to perform a contractual obligation due to a weather emergency.

Impact

If passed, SB2111 would modify existing regulations concerning reporting obligations in the gas supply sector. It would hold operators accountable for documenting failures that occur during adverse weather conditions, which could have implications for the gas supply chain at large. Stakeholders in the energy sector, including utility companies and state regulatory bodies, are expected to adjust their operations to comply with this new requirement, which may include enhanced reporting mechanisms and emergency response protocols.

Summary

SB2111 proposes to establish a reporting requirement for operators of certain gas supply chain and gas pipeline facilities in the event of a failure to meet contractual obligations due to weather emergencies. The intent is to ensure transparency and accountability from these operators, enabling better preparedness and response during critical situations that can significantly impact gas supply and distribution. This legislation reflects an increased focus on climate-related impacts on infrastructure and aims to safeguard consumers while maintaining reliable energy access.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2111 appears to be supportive among environmental advocates and consumer protection groups, who view the bill as a necessary step towards increasing accountability in the energy sector. However, some industry representatives may express concerns about the administrative burden this reporting requirement could impose on operators. The discussions indicate a broader recognition of the changing climate conditions and the importance of resilient infrastructure in managing energy supply amidst such challenges.

Contention

The primary point of contention regarding SB2111 revolves around the balance of regulatory oversight versus operational flexibility for gas supply operators. While proponents argue that the reporting requirements will lead to improved safety and reliability of gas supply during emergencies, opponents may contend that the legislation could impose excessive regulatory burdens, potentially leading to increased operational costs. This tension highlights the ongoing debate between necessity for oversight and the need for sufficient operational freedoms within the energy sector.

Companion Bills

TX HB4984

Identical Relating to reporting by operators of certain gas supply chain facilities and gas pipeline facilities on a failure to perform a contractual obligation due to a weather emergency.

Previously Filed As

TX HB575

Relating to preparation for and response to weather emergencies that affect certain natural gas facilities; increasing the amount of civil and administrative penalties.

TX HB51

Georgia Environmental Finance Authority; finance and perform certain duties for projects relating to natural gas facilities; authorize

TX HB3700

Relating to certification of operators of certain water facilities; declaring an emergency.

TX A07625

Requires gas pipeline facilities to accelerate the repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of equipment or pipelines that are leaking or leak prone and increase safety reporting relating to gas pipeline leaks; requires the public service commission to establish timelines for the repair, rehabilitation or replacement of leaking or leak prone infrastructure; requires the commission to provide a gas safety report to the legislature.

TX S08042

Requires gas pipeline facilities to accelerate the repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of equipment or pipelines that are leaking or leak prone and increase safety reporting relating to gas pipeline leaks; requires the public service commission to establish timelines for the repair, rehabilitation or replacement of leaking or leak prone infrastructure; requires the commission to provide a gas safety report to the legislature.

TX SB2116

Relating to the critical designation of certain natural gas facilities.

TX SB13

Georgia Environmental Finance Authority; finance and perform certain duties in connection with projects relating to natural gas facilities; authorize

TX HB5224

Relating to the designation of certain natural gas facilities as seasonally critical.

TX HB1292

Eliminating a carbon dioxide pipelines' owners', operators', or managers' status as a common pipeline carrier.

TX HB877

Prohibits carbon capture facilities from sharing pipelines

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.