H.B. No. 457 proposes the establishment of a toxic chemical emergency alert system to notify individuals in the vicinity of a manufacturing facility about the release of toxic chemicals that could significantly endanger human health or the environment. The bill amends Section 505.017 of the Health and Safety Code, changing its heading to include "TOXIC CHEMICAL EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM" and adding new subsections that outline the responsibilities of the state emergency response commission. Specifically, the commission is tasked with developing and maintaining the alert system, which must notify affected individuals within 30 minutes of a confirmed release and provide options for preferred notification methods.

The alert system is required to utilize various communication methods, including reverse 9-1-1 calls, text messages, and social media, and must be accessible in both English and Spanish. Alerts must include detailed information about the release, such as affected areas, toxicity of the chemicals involved, and protective instructions. Additionally, the commission is mandated to review and update the alert system every four years. The implementation of this system is to be completed by January 1, 2027, with the act taking effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 505.017 (Health and Safety Code 505)