Texas State Lawmakers Pass Legislation to Enhance Grid Protection Against Cyber Attacks

The Texas legislature on May 21 approved a measure aimed at mitigating the risk of cyber and physical attacks that may affect the reliability of the state’s electric systems. The legislation would establish the electric grid security council as an advisory body to implement and disseminate best security practices for the power industry, including generation, transmission, and delivery. (SB 475)

A second bill sets forth tasks for the cybersecurity monitor program under the oversight of the Public Utilities Commission. The program would manage a comprehensive cybersecurity outreach program for monitored utilities, review their voluntarily-disclosed self-assessments of cybersecurity efforts, and develop best business practices regarding cybersecurity. An electric utility, municipally owned utility, or electric cooperative that operates outside the ERCOT region have the option to participate in or leave the program.(SB 936)