The bill, introduced by Gervin-Hawkins as H.B. No. 61, aims to establish a statewide real-time emergency communications platform in Texas. This platform is intended to facilitate communication among governmental agencies and other organizations before, during, and after natural disasters or emergencies. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the division to develop and maintain this platform, ensuring it is capable of rapid communication, integrates various emergency management capabilities, and is accessible to emergency management personnel across different levels of government.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the platform must be interoperable with existing state and federal emergency communication systems and adhere to established standards for terminology in emergency management. It mandates that the platform be incorporated into both the comprehensive state emergency management plan and local emergency management plans. The division is also tasked with granting access to various state agencies, municipalities, and other entities involved in disaster preparedness and response. The bill is set to take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

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