Relating to an emergency power supply for service stations, supermarkets, and pharmacies located in certain areas of the state; providing a civil penalty.
The implementation of HB2247 would require service stations with six or more fueling positions, supermarkets, and pharmacies in designated areas to maintain sufficient alternative power to operate essential equipment, including fuel pumps and refrigeration systems for at least ten consecutive days during normal business hours. This is particularly critical for supermarkets and pharmacies to safeguard public health and safety, ensuring the availability of food and medications during emergencies.
House Bill 2247 aims to enhance emergency preparedness in Texas by mandating that service stations, supermarkets, and pharmacies located in areas prone to severe weather be equipped with alternative electrical generators. The bill defines 'areas prone to severe weather' as coastal counties or other counties that have experienced a state of disaster as declared by executive authority. This legislation highlights the importance of ensuring vital services remain operational during power outages caused by severe weather conditions.
Overall, HB2247 represents a proactive step towards disaster readiness in Texas. By equipping critical infrastructures with necessary power sources, the state aims to mitigate the devastating effects of natural disasters on communities. Nevertheless, it is crucial to balance public safety needs with the economic realities faced by smaller entities that may be impacted by the new requirements.
While the bill broadly represents an effort to prepare essential services for potential weather-related crises, opposition could arise regarding the financial implications for small service stations and pharmacies that may struggle to afford the installation and maintenance of generators. Furthermore, questions may be raised about the state's role in enforcing these requirements and potential penalties for non-compliance, as misinterpretation of the law could lead to significant financial penalties of up to $500 per violation.