Texas House Bill HR3060

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 5/31/09
• Enrolled: 6/4/09
• Passed: 6/4/09

Caption

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction, H.B. No. 1831.

Impact

HR3060 will significantly impact state laws regarding the safety and emergency protocols within educational institutions. It mandates that schools and junior colleges conduct safety and security audits at least every three years. These audits are designed to assess the readiness of schools to handle emergencies effectively and to ensure compliance with state safety standards. Furthermore, the establishment of the University of Houston Hurricane Center for Innovative Technology is mandated to help develop and provide guidance on best practices related to hurricane preparedness, adding a dedicated resource for research and development in disaster management.

Summary

House Resolution 3060 (HR3060) aims to enhance disaster preparedness and emergency management in Texas, particularly focusing on educational institutions. The bill proposes that every school district and public junior college must adopt and implement a comprehensive multihazard emergency operations plan. This plan includes essential components such as employee training, mandatory drills, and coordination with local emergency services. By ensuring that institutions have well-defined emergency protocols, the resolution seeks to bolster the state's capability to respond effectively to disasters and emergencies.

Contention

While HR3060 primarily aims to improve preparedness and safety, there may be contentions regarding the appropriations necessary to support the implementation of such programs. Some legislators may argue about the financial feasibility of enforcing these measures, especially in districts that may already be struggling with budget constraints. Additionally, concerns may arise about the practical implications of mandatory drills and audits, as they could impact the normal functioning of schools and require significant administrative effort and compliance monitoring.