SB1501

THE CONTEXT: The Commission is a statewide agency and public utility commission that is responsible for ensuring safe, reliable and affordable utility services. The Commission regulates investor-owned or privately-owned utilities that provide utility services ( ACC ).

WHAT THE BILL DID: The final vetoed version would require the Commission to conduct a grid security review at least once every two years or as a part of the Commission's integrated resource planning process or biennial transmission assessment, direct the Commission to adopt an order specifying the frequency or process within which it will conduct a review, and require each investor-owned public service corporation doing business in the state to: a) research and evaluate the generation and grid management technologies that can protect against or withstand a physical attack and cyberattack; b) evaluate the dangers associated with an electromagnetic pulse and the steps necessary to secure a continuous supply of electricity to residents of this state; c) evaluate new information technology systems and how protections are implemented; and d) update and submit the public service corporation's cybersecurity and grid protection protocols to the Commission for review.

WHY IT MATTERED: The practical reason for this bill was to make the stated financial responsibility enforceable and keep public reporting on time. It would require the Commission to conduct a grid security review at least once every two years or as a part of the Commission's integrated resource planning process or biennial transmission assessment, and would also direct the Commission to adopt an order specifying the frequency or process within which it will conduct a review, rather than leave the current rule unchanged.