House Bill No. [insert number] aims to enhance the evaluation of electric transformers in Louisiana by amending existing public records law and establishing a new chapter dedicated to the assessment of transformers. The bill amends R.S. 44:4.1(B)(36) to include the newly enacted R.S. 51:3301, which introduces the "Survey All Vulnerable Electric Transformers Act" (SAVE Act). This act mandates that covered entities, defined as electric utilities or project developers, conduct technical assessments of their transformers to evaluate vulnerabilities to ground induced currents (GICs). The assessments must follow specific guidelines and consider factors such as transformer age, condition, and susceptibility to various risks.
Furthermore, the bill requires covered entities to submit a detailed report of their assessments to the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness by October 30, 2026. This report must include critical information about each transformer, such as design specifications, location, purpose, and recommended solutions for mitigating GIC risks. A public version of the report, with sensitive data redacted, will also be submitted to the House of Representatives Select Committee on Homeland Security. The act emphasizes that operational procedures alone are insufficient for GIC risk mitigation, and it outlines the responsibilities of the Governor's Office in reviewing the reports and making recommendations to protect the state's infrastructure.
Statutes affected: HB1212 Original: 44:1(B)(36)