The bill amends the Texas Utilities Code to clarify and expand the definition of "transmission service" to include the siting, construction, or enlargement of transmission facilities and infrastructure, such as substations and distribution facilities. It specifies that certain services provided by generation resources are not classified as "transmission service" after the implementation of customer choice. Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for municipalities regarding their consent for electric utilities to site, construct, or enlarge transmission facilities. Municipalities must provide written notice detailing conditions that must be met for the project to proceed and are deemed to have consented if they do not respond within 90 days.

Furthermore, the bill grants electric utilities the authority to construct, maintain, and operate lines and related facilities on public property, including state highways and municipal streets. It also establishes a similar consent process for municipalities regarding activities related to the construction and operation of these facilities, requiring written notice of conditions and a 90-day response window for consent. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Utilities Code 31.002, Utilities Code 37.052, Utilities Code 181.042, Utilities Code 181.043 (Utilities Code 181, Utilities Code 31, Utilities Code 37)