The bill, H.B. No. 242, aims to enhance flood safety and disaster preparedness in Texas by introducing several key provisions. It mandates the installation of outdoor warning sirens in designated flood-risk zones, defined as areas that have experienced flooding at least once in the past century. Municipalities or counties are required to install these sirens at two-mile intervals along rivers, ensuring they are equipped with water-level sensors and solar-powered backup energy sources. The bill also allows local governments to collaborate on the installation and maintenance of these sirens and requires regular testing of their functionality.

Additionally, the bill establishes a statewide natural disaster alert system to notify residents of imminent threats or occurrences of natural disasters. This system will utilize geographic targeting technology to send alerts to individuals within a 100-mile radius of the affected area and will not allow individuals to opt out of notifications. Furthermore, youth camps located near rivers or lakes at risk of flooding must equip cabins with emergency communication radios and provide flotation devices for campers. The provisions of this act will take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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