Texas Senate Bill SB2292

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/14/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/23/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/09

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a natural disaster housing reconstruction initiative.

Impact

The bill impacts state laws related to disaster recovery by setting up a governance structure that includes the appointment of a Natural Disaster Housing Reconstruction Coordinator and an advisory committee composed of various stakeholders including state agency directors and representatives from academic institutions. Specifically, it aims to streamline the process of temporary and permanent housing solutions for victims and to foster collaboration between different state and federal agencies, thus ensuring a more coordinated response to housing issues arising from disasters.

Summary

SB2292 establishes a framework for a Natural Disaster Housing Reconstruction Initiative aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of housing recovery following natural disasters. The bill mandates the creation of an advisory committee that will develop a comprehensive reconstruction plan to assess the existing housing systems. This initiative is geared towards future disaster recovery operations rather than ongoing efforts, signalling a proactive approach to managing housing needs post-disaster.

Contention

Notably, the bill provides for the establishment of a demonstration program that will test the proposed housing models in areas that have previously experienced natural disasters. There may be points of contention surrounding the adequacy of funding for these initiatives, particularly regarding how the program will be financed and whether it will sufficiently cater to the needs of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals. The comprehensive nature of the reconstruction plan indicates an intent to address not only immediate housing needs but also the long-term sustainability and quality of post-disaster housing.