Bill
SB 1398
84(R) - 2015
House Natural Resources
House Natural Resources
Vote Recommendation
Yes
-
Neutral
-
Neutral
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Neutral
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Positive
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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