The bill, H.B. No. 5239, aims to enhance public participation in the development and revision of emergency management plans by requiring certain governmental entities to allow interested individuals, including those with disabilities, to comment on these plans. Specifically, it amends Section 418.042(b) of the Government Code to mandate that the state emergency management division seek advice from various stakeholders and provide a reasonable opportunity for public input, unless the plans contain sensitive information related to critical infrastructures. Additionally, it introduces a new subsection (a-1) to Section 418.106, which imposes similar requirements on local and interjurisdictional agencies regarding public input on their emergency management plans.

The bill emphasizes the importance of considering all written and oral submissions from the public before finalizing any emergency management plans or revisions. However, it also includes a provision that exempts agencies from these requirements if the plans involve sensitive information. The proposed changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 418.042, Government Code 418.106 (Government Code 418)