Signed Into Law
Signed June 20, 2025Effective 2025-06-20
HB144

Regular Session

Relating to plans for the management and inspection of distribution poles.

Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis

Business Impact

Who HB144 Affects

Regulatory Priority: critical

Significant regulatory changes (effective 2025-06-20). Review with your legal and compliance teams to understand implications.

Estimated Cost Impact

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Compliance Analysis

Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation

Immediate Action Plan

Operational Changes Required

Strategic Ambiguities & Considerations

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Quick Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about HB144

Q

What does Texas HB144 do?

HB144 mandates a transition from reactive infrastructure maintenance to a formalized, state-regulated regime for distribution poles. This law requires Electric Utilities, Cooperatives, and Municipally Owned Utilities (MOUs) to file binding management plans with the PUC, creating a codified standard of care that will be used in future liability claims and enforcement actions.

Q

Who authored HB144?

HB144 was authored by Texas Representative Ken King during the Regular Session.

Q

When was HB144 signed into law?

HB144 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025.

Q

Which agencies enforce HB144?

HB144 is enforced by Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC).

Q

How significant are the changes in HB144?

The regulatory priority for HB144 is rated as "critical". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.

Q

What is the cost impact of HB144?

The cost impact of HB144 is estimated as "high". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.

Q

What topics does HB144 address?

HB144 addresses topics including city government, city government--utilities, utilities, utilities--electric and public utility commission.

Q

What are the key dates for HB144?

Key dates for HB144: Effective date is 2025-06-20. Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.

Q

What are the penalties under HB144?

HB144 establishes the following penalties: administrative penalty of Subject to standard PUC administrative penalties (Chapter 15, Utilities Code) for Failure to submit the required Distribution Pole Plan or Annual Updates; failure to meet plan objectives as determined by PUC review.. Consult with legal counsel for specific applicability to your situation.

Q

Which Texas businesses are affected by HB144?

HB144 primarily affects utility companies and energy providers. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.

Legislative data provided by LegiScanLast updated: January 11, 2026