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, changing the heading to include "TOXIC CHEMICAL EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM" and adding several new subsections. These subsections outline the responsibilities of state agencies in notifying the public within 30 minutes of determining that a chemical release poses a significant threat to human health or the environment. The Texas Division of Emergency Management and the Department of Public Safety are tasked with issuing alerts and providing updates when the threat diminishes.

The bill mandates the creation of a comprehensive alert system that utilizes various communication methods, including reverse 9-1-1 calls, text messages, and social media, to ensure effective dissemination of information in both English and Spanish. Alerts must include details about the affected areas, the nature of the chemical release, and instructions for public safety. Additionally, the state emergency response commission is required to review and update the alert system every four years, with a deadline set for establishing the system by March 1, 2027.

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