The bill, introduced by Goodwin as H.B. No. 224, aims to enhance local emergency warning systems operated by municipalities and counties in Texas. It amends the Government Code by adding Section 418.1103, which defines "contact information" and allows political subdivisions to contract with the department for the disclosure of residents' contact information, provided that residents consent to participate in the emergency warning system. Additionally, participants can request removal from the system through a written request, including a text message, and the political subdivision is required to cease issuing emergency warnings to those who opt out.

Furthermore, the bill introduces Section 521.016 to the Transportation Code, which allows individuals applying for or renewing a driver's license to voluntarily consent to participate in local emergency warning systems. The application will include a section for individuals to indicate their consent for the disclosure of their contact information to their respective municipality or county for this purpose. The department is mandated to disclose this information only for the purpose of enrolling individuals in the emergency warning system and issuing warnings, ensuring that the data is not used for any other purposes. The bill is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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