United Members Voice Concerns Through Grassroots Initiative

United, along with Texas’ electric cooperatives, recently leveraged Voices for Cooperative Power (VCP), a grassroots energy policy network, about proposed legislation that could significantly impact electric cooperative members across Texas. 

House Bill (HB) 3448, introduced this legislative session, would require electric cooperatives to allow telecommunications companies to attach equipment to utility poles at state-regulated rates. United and other Texas co-ops have raised concerns that the proposed rates would not cover the costs of maintaining pole infrastructure—costs that could then be passed on to co-op members.

In addition to financial implications, United is concerned that the bill would allow telecom companies to bypass safety standards and easement requirements. This could result in equipment being installed on private property without landowner permission and potentially compromise the safety and reliability of the electric system.

This legislation highlights a growing need for cooperative members to stay informed and engaged on policy issues that affect the affordability, safety and reliability of their electric service.

About Voices for Cooperative Power 
Formed in 2021, Voices for Cooperative Power (VCP) is a grassroots network of more than 1.1 million co-op members nationwide. VCP gives electric cooperative members a platform to speak out on energy policies that affect their service and their communities.

While VCP initially focused on federal legislation, it’s increasingly active at the state level. So far in 2025, VCP has supported co-op interests in ten states, including Texas.

Why it Matters 
Laws that affect electric cooperatives ultimately affect co-op members. When policy decisions are made without input from the people who rely on co-ops every day, the results can lead to higher costs, reduced service quality, or loss of local control.

VCP helps co-op members’ engage decision-makers. It offers simple tools to contact lawmakers, share the co-op story and support policies that keep electricity dependable and fairly priced for rural Texans.

For more information about VCP and ways to ensure United continues to innovate and build a more reliable energy future for our community, visit voicesforcooperativepower.com.