Texas Senate Bill SB12

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/14/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/24/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/20/09

Caption

Relating to disaster preparedness and emergency management and to certain vehicles used in emergencies; providing a penalty.

Impact

By institutionalizing a phased reentry plan, SB12 seeks to prioritize the reentry of key stakeholders, including public safety officials and utility employees, after a disaster, which could expedite recovery efforts. The plan also proposes a reentry credentialing process that may streamline the management of resources during emergencies while ensuring that local residents are also considered. Additionally, civil liability clauses are introduced for individuals defying mandatory evacuation orders, which could potentially discourage residents from risking their safety and that of others during emergencies.

Summary

SB12 aims to enhance the state's disaster preparedness and emergency management framework by delineating clearer protocols for evacuation and reentry during emergencies. The bill emphasizes the importance of registering institutions with the Texas Information and Referral Network, ensuring that facilities assist in identifying individuals who may require evacuation support during a disaster. This provision specifically addresses the needs of residents in assisted living facilities, acknowledging their vulnerability in crisis situations. Furthermore, the bill mandates outreach and educational initiatives to inform the public about disaster preparedness and recovery, thereby promoting community resilience.

Contention

While the bill is designed to bolster state and local emergency response capabilities, it has raised concerns regarding personal liberties, especially regarding the mandatory evacuation orders that include the potential for enforced removal. Critics fear that such measures could infringe on individual rights and inadvertently discourage cooperation during emergencies. Another area of contention is the burden of responsibility placed on private entities and volunteers when operating during disasters, as they may face legal implications should their services be questioned in rescue operations.

Final_notes

Overall, SB12 seeks to create a more systematic and coordinated approach to disaster management in Texas, balancing the need for effective response protocols with the rights and safety of individual citizens. The successful implementation of the bill may hinge on its acceptance by both government bodies and the communities it aims to assist.