The bill, H.B. No. 187, aims to enhance public safety by establishing a standardized outdoor warning siren activation protocol in Texas. It introduces new sections to the Government Code, specifically Sections 418.196 and 418.197. Section 418.196 mandates the Texas Division of Emergency Management to develop a protocol that outlines uniform criteria for activating outdoor warning sirens by political subdivisions. This protocol will include criteria for activation during emergencies, such as severe weather warnings and local disaster declarations, while also accommodating regional differences. Additionally, it specifies that the protocol will not regulate testing schedules, maintenance, or minimum geographic coverage of the sirens.

Furthermore, Section 418.197 establishes an advisory committee to guide the development and implementation of the activation protocol. This committee will consist of representatives from various emergency management sectors and will provide technical guidance, insights on regional differences, and conduct an annual survey of existing practices. The bill sets deadlines for the development and adoption of the protocol, requiring the Division to publish it by March 15, 2026, and for political subdivisions to adopt it by September 1, 2026. The advisory committee is also tasked with completing an initial survey and submitting recommendations by early 2026. The act will take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()