Texas House Bill HB2619

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/9/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/8/11
• Voted on by House: 4/20/11
• Refer: 3/15/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/18/11
• Report Pass: 3/31/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 4/20/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/29/11
• Report Pass: 5/18/11
• Enrolled: 5/25/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to emergency preparedness information about water facilities.

Impact

The impact of HB2619 on state laws is significant as it requires utilities to maintain updated information about their emergency preparedness plans and critical load status. This legislative change is primarily aimed at enhancing coordination between utilities and emergency management agencies. By having a clear protocol in place, the bill seeks to mitigate the potential disruptions during emergency situations, ensuring a quicker response and recovery process for essential services.

Summary

House Bill 2619 addresses the importance of emergency preparedness information specifically related to water facilities in Texas. The bill mandates that affected utilities submit comprehensive emergency preparedness plans to the county's office of emergency management, the Public Utility Commission of Texas, and the governor's division of emergency management. This approach ensures that critical infrastructure, such as water and wastewater facilities, are well-prepared for emergency situations, thereby safeguarding public health and safety.

Contention

While the bill may be broadly beneficial in terms of improved safety and preparedness, it could raise concerns among utilities about the added regulatory burdens and compliance costs. Some opponents might argue that the requirements could place an undue financial strain on smaller utilities that may not have the resources to meet the new stipulations. Thus, a balance must be struck between ensuring safety and not overburdening utility providers, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited.