Relating to authorizing the provision of state matching funds to municipalities for hurricane preparation and recovery.
Impact
The anticipated effect of SB1994 is significant, as it encourages local governments to prioritize disaster preparedness. With state matching funds covering 25% of the amount that municipalities add to their own disaster funds in the previous fiscal year, local governments are likely to increase their contributions toward these funds. This could potentially lead to improved infrastructure and response capabilities during hurricanes, reducing the economic and human costs associated with these disasters.
Summary
SB1994 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing municipal preparedness and recovery from hurricanes through a state-funded matching grants program. The bill authorizes the provision of matching funds to municipalities, incentivizing them to establish and contribute to their disaster contingency funds specifically allocated for hurricane-related emergencies. By implementing this program, the bill seeks to ensure that municipalities are better equipped financially to respond to the challenges posed by hurricanes.
Contention
While the bill is designed to bolster emergency readiness, it may face scrutiny regarding its implementation and efficacy. Critics could argue that mere financial incentives may not be enough to ensure proper preparedness, and the effectiveness of the program may depend significantly on local governments' willingness and ability to contribute to their disaster funds. Further, the eligibility and distribution mechanisms for these matching funds may also raise questions about fairness or accessibility among different municipalities.
Relating to small business recovery funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; imposing a monetary penalty; authorizing fees.
Relating to funding of excess losses and operating expenses of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; authorizing an assessment; authorizing a surcharge.
Relating to the establishment of the small municipality revenue recovery grant program to provide financial assistance for economic development to small municipalities facing severe economic hardships.
Relating to the creation of a voluntary accreditation for recovery housing and the post-release housing of certain inmates on parole or to mandatory supervision in an accredited recovery house; authorizing fees.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.