The bill, introduced by Senator Eckhardt, amends the Government Code and Transportation Code to enhance local emergency warning systems operated by municipalities and counties in Texas. It establishes a new section, 418.1103, which allows political subdivisions to contract with the department to obtain the contact information of residents who consent to participate in emergency warning systems. Residents can request removal from the system and choose to receive alerts in both English and Spanish. Additionally, the bill introduces Section 521.016, which permits individuals applying for or renewing a driver's license to voluntarily consent to participate in local emergency warning systems and authorize the disclosure of their contact information to relevant municipalities or counties.

The bill emphasizes the importance of privacy by stipulating that contact information obtained for emergency warning systems cannot be used for any purpose other than enrollment and issuing warnings. This legislative measure aims to improve communication and safety during emergencies by ensuring that residents can be effectively notified while also protecting their personal information. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

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