H.B. No. 189 aims to enhance public participation in the development and revision of emergency management plans by requiring certain governmental entities to allow interested individuals, including those with disabilities, to comment on these plans. The bill amends Section 418.042(b) of the Government Code to mandate that the state emergency management division seek advice from various stakeholders and provide a reasonable opportunity for public input, unless the plans contain sensitive information related to critical infrastructures. Additionally, it requires that all submissions received be fully considered.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new subsection, Section 418.106(a-1), which imposes similar requirements on local or interjurisdictional agencies before they adopt or revise their emergency management plans. These agencies must also allow for public comments and consider all feedback, with the same exception for sensitive information. The provisions of this act will take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 418.042, Government Code 418.106 (Government Code 418)