Bill

SB 1398

84(R) - 2015
House Natural Resources
House Natural Resources

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Bob Hall

Co-Author(s)

Jane Nelson

Bill Caption

Relating to protection of critical infrastructure from electromagnetic, geomagnetic, terrorist, and cyber-attack threats.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

SB 1398 would authorize for a study to be conducted by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas regarding securing critical facilities from electromagnetic, geomagnetic, terrorist, and cyber-attack threats. Critical infrastructure is defined in the bill as an electrical power generating facility, substation, switching station, or electrical control. Other definitions and parameters are also included in the bill.

Vote Recommendation Notes

We have been neutral on most studies as they generally do not affect our liberty principles. This study, however, pertains directly to a role of government that is both legitimate and critical; that is, to know what critical infrastructure may be vulnerable to attack so that preparations may be made to better secure those facilities. This fits within our view of a legitimate role of limited government. We support SB 1398.

Organizations Supporting

Texas Eagle Forum

Organizations Opposed

Association of Electric Companies of Texas