The bill, H.B. No. 165, aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response at both state and local government levels in Texas. It amends several sections of the Government Code to include new provisions that focus on comprehensive disaster recovery strategies, particularly for vulnerable populations such as individuals with disabilities, the homeless, and low-income households. Key insertions include the requirement for local officials to develop emergency management plans that address the needs of these populations, as well as the establishment of minimum health-related standards for shelters and an emergency notification system tailored to individuals with disabilities.

Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a crisis standards of care framework by the Department of State Health Services, which will guide regional planning agencies in developing personnel surge capacity plans during disasters. It also emphasizes the importance of community resilience and reducing long-term vulnerabilities for persons with disabilities through inclusive disaster planning practices. The bill removes certain outdated provisions while adding new requirements to ensure a more effective and equitable disaster response system. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 418.054, Government Code 418.106, Government Code 418.186, Government Code 418.1882, Government Code 418.192, Government Code 421.002, Health and Safety Code 81.0813 (Government Code 421, Government Code 418, Health and Safety Code 81)