The bill, S.B. No. 2984, introduces new requirements for electric cooperatives, utilities, and municipally owned utilities in Texas regarding the management and inspection of distribution poles. It amends the heading of Subchapter E, Chapter 38 of the Utilities Code to reflect a focus on infrastructure improvement and maintenance, removing the previous reference to a report. A new section, 38.103, is added, mandating that each entity must submit a comprehensive plan to the Public Utility Commission of Texas. This plan must outline the scope and objectives, roles and responsibilities, processes for managing and inspecting distribution poles, training for personnel, and a proposed budget.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the commission must approve, modify, or reject the submitted plans within 180 days. Entities are required to provide updates on their compliance with the plan's objectives and associated costs at least every three years. The bill sets a deadline of January 1, 2026, for the initial submission of these plans. It will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

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