Texas House Bill HB7

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to disaster preparation for state agencies and political subdivisions.

Impact

If enacted, HB 7 would significantly impact the manner in which state and local governments prepare for and respond to disasters. By creating a structured process for identifying which regulations can be temporarily suspended, the bill sets a foundation for more efficient contract execution for services likely needed in disaster aftermaths, such as debris management and infrastructure repair. This proactive approach is designed to foster a culture of preparedness among political subdivisions, enabling them to secure necessary resources and services before a disaster strikes.

Summary

House Bill 7 focuses on enhancing disaster preparedness for state agencies and political subdivisions in Texas. It establishes a framework for compiling a comprehensive list of regulatory statutes and rules that may be suspended during a disaster to facilitate more effective disaster response and recovery efforts. The primary goal is to ensure that governmental entities can act swiftly and decisively in times of crisis, minimizing bureaucratic delays that can hinder emergency responses. The bill assigns the responsibility for maintaining this list to the governor's office and mandates state agencies to review the list regularly to confirm its accuracy.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 7 appears to be supportive across party lines, as it aligns with a shared goal of improving disaster resilience and response capabilities. Both legislative support and the public response reflect a recognition of the increasing frequency and severity of disasters, making it essential for governmental entities to have the necessary frameworks in place to handle emergency situations effectively. There appears to be a consensus on the need for the state to facilitate better preparedness among its subdivisions.

Contention

While there seems to be broad support, some concerns may arise regarding the potential implications of suspending regulatory statutes during disasters. Critics may argue that such suspensions could lead to lapses in oversight and accountability. The balance between rapid response and maintaining regulatory safeguards is a point of contention that stakeholders may raise, particularly those advocating for public health and safety. The effective implementation of the bill will hinge on ensuring that necessary regulations are appropriately evaluated before being suspended, thus maintaining public trust in government response efforts.