H.B. No. 256 introduces a new chapter, Chapter 796, to the Government Code, which mandates certain state entities to develop and publish a severe weather adaptation plan by September 1 of each even-numbered year. The entities required to comply include the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Public Safety, the General Land Office, and several others, totaling thirteen specific agencies. The severe weather adaptation plan must assess the entity's role in relation to severe weather events, based on current scientific research, and include a vulnerability assessment, a review of existing programs, budget impact analysis, potential funding sources, and a strategy for ongoing monitoring of severe weather effects.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that these plans must be posted on a publicly accessible website and submitted electronically to key state officials, including the governor and legislative leaders. The plans are subject to audit by the state auditor, ensuring accountability and compliance. The bill also includes provisions for redacting sensitive information that could compromise operational security before the plans are made public. This legislation aims to enhance the preparedness and resilience of state entities in the face of severe weather challenges.

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