The bill proposes the addition of Section 38.0725 to Subchapter D, Chapter 38 of the Utilities Code, which establishes a framework for electric utilities to create and maintain a list of "priority facilities." A priority facility is defined as either a facility already listed in Section 38.072(b) or one deemed crucial for public safety, such as hospitals, police stations, fire stations, and critical water and wastewater facilities. The bill mandates that the commission adopt criteria for identifying these facilities and requires electric utilities to maintain the list within their service areas.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that electric utilities must provide a mechanism on their websites for facilities to request inclusion on the priority facility list. Utilities are required to respond to such requests within 14 days, confirming whether the facility qualifies as a priority facility. In the event of a natural disaster or emergency declared by the governor, utilities must share the list of priority facilities with local emergency management agencies. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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