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 and include a vulnerability assessment, a review of existing programs, an analysis of budget impacts over the next decade, potential funding sources, and a strategy for monitoring ongoing effects of severe weather.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that these plans must be posted on a publicly accessible website and submitted 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 allows entities to consult with the Office of the Texas State Climatologist during the development of their plans. The provisions of this act will apply to continuity of operations plans developed after the act's effective date, which is set for 91 days following the end of the legislative session.

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