Texas Senate Bill SB1890

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/20/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/18/09

Caption

Relating to the temporary suspension of certain signage restrictions during a state of disaster.

Impact

The passage of SB1890 is expected to enhance the efficiency of insurance claims processing during disasters by alleviating local regulatory burdens that might hinder communication and assistance efforts. This temporary suspension is designed for municipalities located within and adjacent to declared disaster areas. By enabling the commissioner of insurance to have such authority, the bill aims to facilitate more effective disaster response and recovery efforts, potentially speeding up claim submissions and approvals for victims.

Summary

Senate Bill 1890 proposes an amendment to the Texas Insurance Code, specifically addressing the powers of the commissioner of insurance during a declared state of disaster. The bill permits the commissioner to issue orders that temporarily suspend the enforcement of certain regulations concerning on-premises outdoor signs for municipalities located in counties that are affected by the disaster. The intent of this legislation is to streamline processes related to insurance claims for individuals impacted by disasters by temporarily relaxing local signage restrictions.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a practical measure to aid disaster relief, it may also raise concerns about local governance and autonomy. Critics might argue that allowing the state commissioner to override local regulations without broader consultation can lead to inconsistencies and may undermine local decision-making. The balance between effective disaster response and maintaining local control could become a point of debate among stakeholders, particularly in situations where municipalities have established regulations based on community standards and needs.