The bill, H.B. No. 179, aims to establish a toxic chemical emergency alert system in Texas to notify residents of potential dangers from chemical releases by manufacturing facilities. It amends Section 505.017 of the Health and Safety Code, introducing new subsections that outline the responsibilities of state agencies in issuing alerts when a release is determined to substantially endanger human health or the environment. Specifically, the bill mandates that the responsible state agency must notify affected individuals within 30 minutes of such a determination, and it allows the Texas Division of Emergency Management to issue alerts if the responsible agency has not done so.

Additionally, the bill requires the state emergency response commission to develop and maintain the alert system, which must provide notifications through various channels, including reverse 9-1-1 calls, text messages, and social media, in both English and Spanish. The alerts must include critical information about the release, such as affected areas, symptoms of potential illnesses, and protective instructions. The commission is also tasked with reviewing and modifying the alert system every four years to ensure its effectiveness. The system is to be established by March 1, 2027, and the act will take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 505.017 (Health and Safety Code 505)