Texas House Bill HB3705

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the disaster reconstruction coordination office within the governor's office; creating the disaster contingency account.

Impact

The legislation has the potential to significantly influence how state and local governments prepare for and respond to disaster situations. By centralizing disaster coordination under the governor's office, it aims to address prior inefficiencies that hampered recovery efforts. The establishment of an office dedicated to reconstruction can facilitate better communication among agencies, ensuring that the various aspects of disaster recovery—from housing to infrastructure—are synchronized and addressed in a cohesive manner. Additionally, the funding mechanisms provided in the bill may enhance the financial resources available for timely and effective disaster responses.

Summary

House Bill 3705 establishes a Disaster Reconstruction Coordination Office within the governor's office, designed to streamline and manage reconstruction efforts following disasters in the state. The bill creates a disaster contingency account funded by legislative appropriations and allows the governor to appoint a conservator to oversee state agencies administering disaster recovery funds. This initiative emphasizes improved efficiency in disaster response and coordination among various state entities, ensuring that recovery efforts are effectively managed and resources are utilized effectively.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3705 appears to be largely supportive among legislators focused on disaster recovery efficiency; however, it may also face scrutiny regarding the potential concentration of power in the governor’s office. Proponents argue that the bill will reduce the time and effort required to recover from disasters, thus benefiting affected communities. Critics could express concerns about the potential for reduced local control and the effectiveness of the coordination process, depending on the governor's decisions regarding funding and conservatorship appointments.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the oversight and authority of the appointed conservators. While the intent of the bill is to streamline recovery efforts, there could be debates about the balance of power between state and local authorities. Furthermore, the criteria and procedures for appointing conservators and allocating funds from the disaster contingency account may require scrutiny to ensure transparency and accountability. Thus, ongoing discussions around the bill may delve into ensuring that the governance structure of the disaster response aligns with community needs and local governance.