reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter B. Powers and Duties of Governor › Section 418.021. Federal Aid for Local Government

Sec. 418.021.  FEDERAL AID FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT.  (a)  On the governor's determination that a local government of the state has suffered or will suffer a substantial loss of tax and other revenue from a major disaster and has demonstrated a need for financial assistance to perform its governmental functions, the governor may apply to the federal government on behalf of the local government for a loan and may receive and disburse the proceeds of an approved loan to the local government.
(b)  The governor may determine the amount needed by a local government to restore or resume its governmental functions and certify that amount to the federal government.  The amount sought for the local government may not exceed 25 percent of the annual operating budget of the local government for the fiscal year in which the major disaster occurs.
(c)  The governor may recommend to the federal government, based on the governor's review, the cancellation of all or part of repayment if in the first three full fiscal years following the major disaster the revenues of the local government are insufficient to meet its operating expenses, including additional disaster-related expenses of a municipal operation character.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter B. Powers and Duties of Governor › Section 418.022. Aid for Individuals

Sec. 418.022.  AID FOR INDIVIDUALS.  (a)  On the governor's determination that financial assistance is essential to meet disaster-related necessary expenses or serious needs of individuals or families adversely affected by a major disaster that cannot be otherwise adequately met from other means of assistance, the governor may accept a grant by the federal government to fund the financial assistance, subject to the terms and conditions imposed on the grant.  The governor may agree with the federal government or any officer or agency of the United States pledging the state to participate in funding not more than 25 percent of the financial assistance.
(b)  The governor may make financial grants to meet disaster-related necessary expenses or serious needs of individuals or families adversely affected by a major disaster that cannot otherwise adequately be met from other means of assistance.  The grants may not exceed an aggregate amount in excess of that established by federal statute for an individual or family in any single major disaster declared by the president of the United States.
(c)  The governor may designate in the state emergency management plan the Department of Human Services or another state agency to carry out the functions of providing financial aid to individuals or families qualified for disaster relief.  The designated agency may employ temporary personnel for those functions to be paid from funds appropriated to the agency, from federal funds, or from the disaster contingency fund.  The merit system does not apply to the temporary positions.  The governor may allocate funds appropriated under this chapter to implement the purposes of this chapter.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter B. Powers and Duties of Governor › Section 418.023. Clearance of Debris

Sec. 418.023.  CLEARANCE OF DEBRIS.  (a)  Through the use of any state agency or instrumentality, the governor, acting through members of the Emergency Management Council, may clear or remove debris or wreckage from public or private land or water if it threatens public health or safety or public or private property in a state of disaster declared by the governor or major disaster declared by the president of the United States.
(b)  The governor may accept funds from the federal government and use the funds to make grants to a local government for the purpose of removing debris or wreckage from public or private land or water.
(c)  Debris or wreckage may not be removed from public or private property until the affected local government, corporation, organization, or individual presents to the governor or member of the Emergency Management Council an unconditional authorization for removal.  Debris or wreckage may not be removed from private property until the state is indemnified against any claim arising from removal.  In instances where it is not practical and further delay would create a greater risk to public health or safety, the governor, acting through the Emergency Management Council, may remove debris or wreckage from public or private property without an unconditional authorization or indemnification.
(d)  If the governor provides for clearance of debris or wreckage under this chapter, state employees or other individuals acting by authority of the governor may enter on private land or water to perform tasks necessary to the removal or clearance operation.  Except in cases of wilful misconduct, gross negligence, or bad faith, a state employee or agent performing his duties while complying with orders of the governor issued under this chapter is not liable for the death of or injury to a person or for damage to property.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 992, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter B. Powers and Duties of Governor › Section 418.024. Rules

Sec. 418.024.  RULES.  The governor may adopt rules necessary for carrying out the purposes of this chapter, including rules on:
(1)  standards of eligibility for persons applying for benefits;
(2)  procedures for applying for benefits;
(3)  procedures for the administration, investigation, filing, and approval of applications for benefits;
(4)  procedures for the formation of local or statewide boards to pass on applications for benefits;  and
(5)  procedures for appeals of decisions relating to applications for benefits.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter B. Powers and Duties of Governor › Section 418.025. Limited Purpose Declaration

Sec. 418.025.  LIMITED PURPOSE DECLARATION.  (a)  If the governor determines that a disaster can be adequately addressed without invoking all the powers and duties provided by this subchapter, the governor may, by proclamation or executive order, issue a limited purpose disaster declaration invoking only the authority provided by Sections 418.016(a) and (e).
(b)  A declaration made under this section is subject to Section 418.014.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 959 (S.B. 1465), Sec. 1, eff. June 18, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter B. Powers and Duties of Governor › Section 418.026. Grants for Disaster Response by Nonprofit Food Banks

Sec. 418.026.  GRANTS FOR DISASTER RESPONSE BY NONPROFIT FOOD BANKS.  (a)  In this section, "nonprofit food bank" means a nonprofit organization that solicits, warehouses, and redistributes edible food to agencies that feed needy families and individuals.
(b)  Using money available for the purpose, the office of the governor shall establish a program to provide grants to nonprofit organizations in this state for distribution to nonprofit food banks to build the capacity of the nonprofit food banks to respond to disasters.
(c)  To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, a nonprofit organization must:
(1)  have at least five years of experience coordinating a statewide network of nonprofit food banks and charitable organizations that distribute food to needy or low income individuals during disasters; and
(2)  be a member of the Texas Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.
(d)  Grant money awarded under this section may be used only to reimburse a nonprofit food bank for all or part of the costs incurred by the nonprofit food bank as a result of:
(1)  maintaining an inventory of emergency food boxes in preparation for a disaster;
(2)  purchasing, storing, and transporting food for distribution during a disaster; and
(3)  purchasing capital equipment necessary to operate during a disaster, including back-up generators, mobile food pantries, trucks, meal preparation units, forklifts, technology, and other equipment.
(e)  The office of the governor shall establish procedures to administer the grant program, including a procedure for the submission of a proposal and a procedure to be used by the office to evaluate a proposal.
(f)  The office of the governor shall enter into a contract that includes performance requirements with each grant recipient.  The office shall monitor and enforce the terms of the contract.  The contract must authorize the office to recoup grant money from a grant recipient for failure of the grant recipient to comply with the terms of the contract.
(g)  The office of the governor may solicit and accept gifts, grants, and donations from any source for the purpose of awarding grants under this section.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1299 (H.B. 3668), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.041. Organization

Sec. 418.041.  ORGANIZATION.  (a)  The Texas Division of Emergency Management is a component of The Texas A&M University System.
(b)  The division is managed by a chief appointed by the governor.  The chief serves at the pleasure of the governor. The chief must possess professional training and knowledge consisting of not less than five years of managerial or strategic planning experience in matters relating to public safety, security, emergency services, and emergency response.
(c)  At least once every two months, the following shall meet to coordinate efforts, prevent overlap of activities, and ensure that the state's approach to emergency management and homeland security is unified:
(1)  a representative of the department;
(2)  a representative of the division;
(3)  the presiding officer of the Homeland Security Council; and
(4)  a state agency representative from the emergency management council, selected by the chair of the emergency management council.
(d)  The division shall employ other coordinating and planning officers and other professional, technical, secretarial, and clerical personnel necessary to the performance of its functions.
(e)  The division shall manage and staff the state operations center under an agreement with the department.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1146 (H.B. 2730), Sec. 2A.02, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 602 (S.B. 799), Sec. 4, eff. June 10, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 852 (H.B. 2794), Sec. 4, eff. June 10, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0435. Personal Protective Equipment Contracts

Sec. 418.0435.  PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT CONTRACTS.  (a)  The division shall enter into a contract with a manufacturer or wholesale distributor of personal protective equipment that guarantees a set amount and stocked supply of the equipment for use during a public health disaster declared under Section 81.0813, Health and Safety Code.
(b)  The division may purchase personal protective equipment under a contract described by Subsection (a) only if the division determines the state's supply of personal protective equipment will be insufficient based on an evaluation of the personal protective equipment:
(1)  held in reserve in this state; and
(2)  supplied by or expected to be supplied by the federal government.
(c)  The division shall pursue all available federal funding to cover the costs of personal protective equipment purchased under a contract described by Subsection (a).
(d)  In entering into a contract under Subsection (a), the division shall ensure that the manufacturer is located in the United States to the extent practicable.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 863 (S.B. 968), Sec. 2, eff. June 16, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.044. Assistance in Development of Local Plans

Sec. 418.044.  ASSISTANCE IN DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL PLANS.  (a)  The division shall take an integral part in the development and revision of local and interjurisdictional emergency management plans.  For that purpose, the division shall employ or otherwise secure the services of professional and technical personnel capable of providing expert assistance to political subdivisions and emergency management agencies.  Those personnel shall consult with the subdivisions and agencies on a regularly scheduled basis and shall make field reviews of the areas, circumstances, and conditions to which particular local and interjurisdictional emergency management plans apply and may suggest revisions.
(b)  The division shall encourage local and interjurisdictional agencies to seek advice from local government, business, labor, industry, agriculture, civic organizations, volunteer organizations, and community leaders.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 992, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.045. Temporary Personnel

Sec. 418.045.  TEMPORARY PERSONNEL.  (a)  The division may employ or contract with temporary personnel from funds appropriated to the division, from federal funds, or from the disaster contingency fund.  The merit system does not apply to the temporary or contract positions.
(b)  The division may enroll, organize, train, and equip a cadre of disaster reservists with specialized skills in disaster recovery, hazard mitigation, community outreach, and public information to temporarily augment its permanent staff.  The division may activate enrolled disaster reservists to support recovery operations in the aftermath of a disaster or major emergency and pay them at a daily rate commensurate with their qualifications and experience.  Chapter 654, Chapter 2254, and Subtitle D, Title 10, do not apply in relation to a disaster reservist under this subsection.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 992, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1280 (H.B. 1831), Sec. 1.07, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.046. Assistance to Aviators

Sec. 418.046.  ASSISTANCE TO AVIATORS.  (a)  The division may provide assistance to private aviators, including partial reimbursement for funds expended, to meet the actual costs of aircraft operation in performing search, rescue, or disaster-related functions requested by the governor or the governor's designee.
(b)  Any reimbursement must be limited to the actual cost of aircraft operation not reimbursable from other sources.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0461. Assistance to Civil Air Patrol

Sec. 418.0461.  ASSISTANCE TO CIVIL AIR PATROL.  The division may provide financial assistance to the Civil Air Patrol, Texas Wing, to support the wing's disaster-related activities that assist the state and state agencies and the wing's training and exercises associated with those activities.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 889, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 28, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.047. Communications

Sec. 418.047.  COMMUNICATIONS.  (a)  In cooperation with other state agencies, the division shall ascertain what means exist for rapid and efficient communication in times of disaster.
(a-1)  The division shall coordinate with the Texas Department of Transportation to establish additional methods for disseminating emergency public service messages to motorists, including:
(1)  severe weather advisories;
(2)  AMBER alerts under Subchapter L, Chapter 411; and
(3)  silver alerts under Subchapter M, Chapter 411.
(b)  The division shall consider the desirability of supplementing the communication resources or integrating them into a state or state-federal telecommunication or other communication system or network.
(c)  In studying the character and feasibility of any system or its parts, the division shall evaluate the possibility of its multipurpose use for general state and local governmental purposes.
(d)  The division shall make recommendations to the governor as appropriate.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1146 (H.B. 2730), Sec. 8.01, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.048. Monitoring Weather; Disaster Preparedness Education

Sec. 418.048.  MONITORING WEATHER; DISASTER PREPAREDNESS EDUCATION.  (a)  The division shall keep continuously apprised of weather conditions that present danger of climatic activity, such as precipitation, severe enough to constitute a disaster.
(b)  The division shall create a list of suggested actions for state agencies and the public to take to prepare for winter storms, organized by severity of storm based on the National Weather Service Winter Storm Severity Index.
(c)  The division shall develop disaster preparedness educational materials that include instructions for preparing a disaster kit containing supplies most needed in a disaster or emergency, such as water, nonperishable food, medical supplies, flashlights, and other essential items, to assist families and businesses in adequately preparing for winter storms, hurricanes, floods, drought, fires, and other potential disasters.
(d)  The division shall post on the division's Internet website and distribute to local governments and businesses the educational materials and instructions developed under Subsection (c).
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1280 (H.B. 1831), Sec. 1.08, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 426 (S.B. 3), Sec. 2, eff. June 8, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.050. Phased Reentry Plan

Sec. 418.050.  PHASED REENTRY PLAN.  (a)  The division shall develop a phased reentry plan to govern the order in which particular groups of people are allowed to reenter areas previously evacuated because of a disaster or threat of disaster.  The plan may provide different reentry procedures for different types of disasters.
(b)  The phased reentry plan shall:
(1)  recognize the role of local emergency management directors in making decisions regarding the timing and implementation of reentry plans for a disaster; and
(2)  provide local emergency management directors with sufficient flexibility to adjust the plan as necessary to accommodate the circumstances of a particular emergency.
(c)  The division, in consultation with representatives of affected parties and local emergency management directors, shall develop a reentry credentialing process.  The division shall include the credentialing process in the phased reentry plan.  The department shall provide support for the credentialing process.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1280 (H.B. 1831), Sec. 1.09, eff. September 1, 2009.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 602 (S.B. 799), Sec. 5, eff. June 10, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 852 (H.B. 2794), Sec. 5, eff. June 10, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0501. Reentry Credentialing Pilot Program

Sec. 418.0501.  REENTRY CREDENTIALING PILOT PROGRAM.  (a)  The division shall consider implementing a pilot program for a reentry credentialing process for reentry into areas previously evacuated because of a disaster or threat of disaster.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1146 (H.B. 2730), Sec. 2B.051, eff. September 1, 2009.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.050 by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 91 (S.B. 1303), Sec. 27.001(16), eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.051. Communications Coordination Group

Sec. 418.051.  COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATION GROUP.  (a)  The communications coordination group shall facilitate interagency coordination and collaboration to provide efficient and effective planning and execution of communications support to joint, interagency, and intergovernmental task forces.
(b)  At the direction of the division, the communications coordination group shall assist with coordination and collaboration during an emergency.
(c)  The communications coordination group consists of members selected by the division, including representatives of:
(1)  the Texas military forces;
(2)  the department;
(3)  the Federal Emergency Management Agency;
(4)  federal agencies that comprise Emergency Support Function No. 2;
(5)  the telecommunications industry, including cable service providers, as defined by Section 66.002, Utilities Code;
(6)  electric utilities, as defined by Section 31.002, Utilities Code;
(7)  gas utilities, as defined by Sections 101.003 and 121.001, Utilities Code;
(8)  the National Guard's Joint Continental United States Communications Support Environment;
(9)  the National Guard Bureau;
(10)  amateur radio operator groups;
(11)  the Texas A&M Forest Service;
(12)  the Texas Department of Transportation;
(13)  the General Land Office;
(14)  the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service;
(15)  the Public Utility Commission of Texas;
(16)  the Railroad Commission of Texas;
(17)  the Department of State Health Services;
(18)  the judicial branch of state government;
(19)  the Texas Association of Regional Councils;
(20)  the United States Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol, Texas Wing;
(21)  each trauma service area regional advisory council;
(22)  state agencies, counties, and municipalities affected by the emergency, including 9-1-1 agencies; and
(23)  other agencies as determined by the division.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1280 (H.B. 1831), Sec. 1.10, eff. September 1, 2009.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 602 (S.B. 799), Sec. 6, eff. June 10, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 852 (H.B. 2794), Sec. 6, eff. June 10, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.052. Use of Funds to Support Certain Persons

Sec. 418.052.  USE OF FUNDS TO SUPPORT CERTAIN PERSONS.  The division may use appropriated funds to purchase food and beverages for a person who is:
(1)  activated to provide services in response to an emergency situation, an incident, or a disaster; and
(2)  unable to leave or required to remain at the person's assignment area due to the emergency situation, incident, or disaster.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 267 (H.B. 120), Sec. 1, eff. June 1, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 308 (S.B. 854), Sec. 1, eff. May 29, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.053. Emergency Services District Program

Sec. 418.053.  EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT PROGRAM.  (a)  The division shall serve as a resource to provide interested rural communities with:
(1)  general information about emergency services districts; and
(2)  information and training related to the establishment of an emergency services district.
(b)  The division may:
(1)  provide to fire departments in rural areas information relating to assistance programs offered to rural volunteer firefighters, including the federal Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program to help fire departments increase staffing and deployment capabilities; and
(2)  provide to rural homeowners information relating to the benefits of volunteer fire departments, including a reduction in homeowners insurance risk ratings, lower homeowners insurance rates, and better fire protection.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 634 (H.B. 2619), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 560 (S.B. 1440), Sec. 2, eff. June 16, 2007.
Renumbered from Government Code, Section 487.060 by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 921 (H.B. 3167), Sec. 17.001(29), eff. September 1, 2007.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 112 (H.B. 1918), Sec. 30, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 148 (H.B. 1493), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2013.
Transferred, redesignated and amended from Government Code, Section 487.061 by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1019 (H.B. 1510), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.054. Disaster Response Guide

Sec. 418.054.  DISASTER RESPONSE GUIDE.  (a)  The division shall develop a model guide for local officials regarding disaster response and recovery.  The guide must provide a comprehensive approach to disaster recovery by local officials and include information on:
(1)  contracting for debris removal;
(2)  obtaining federal disaster funding;
(3)  coordinating the availability and construction of short-term and long-term housing; and
(4)  obtaining assistance from local, state, and federal volunteer organizations.
(b)  The division, in coordination with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, shall provide training based on the disaster response guide as a part of the emergency management training course provided under Section 418.005.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 946 (S.B. 6), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0541. Catastrophic Debris Management Plan and Training

Sec. 418.0541.  CATASTROPHIC DEBRIS MANAGEMENT PLAN AND TRAINING.  (a)  The division, in consultation with any other state agencies selected by the division, shall develop a catastrophic debris management plan and model guide for use by political subdivisions in the event of a disaster.
(b)  The plan must:
(1)   provide a guide for clearance and disposal of debris caused by a disaster, including information on preparing for debris removal before a disaster; and
(2)  include:
(A)  provisions for the use of trench burners and air curtain incinerators of vegetative debris, including identifying sources of equipment for use immediately following a disaster; and
(B)  contracting standards and a model contract for use in procuring debris removal services following a disaster.
(c)  The division shall consult with the comptroller about including a contract for debris removal services on the schedule of multiple award contracts developed under Subchapter I, Chapter 2155, or in another cooperative purchasing program administered by the comptroller.
(d)  The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, in coordination with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, shall establish a training program for state agencies and political subdivisions on the use of trench burners in debris removal.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 946 (S.B. 6), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.055 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(23), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0542. Catastrophic Debris Management Plan and Training

Sec. 418.0542.  CATASTROPHIC DEBRIS MANAGEMENT PLAN AND TRAINING.  (a)  The division, in consultation with any other state agencies selected by the division, shall develop a catastrophic debris management plan and model guide for use by political subdivisions in the event of a disaster.
(b)  The plan must:
(1)   provide a guide for clearance and disposal of debris caused by a disaster, including information on preparing for debris removal before a disaster; and
(2)  include:
(A)  provisions for the use of trench burners and air curtain incinerators of vegetative debris, including identifying sources of equipment for use immediately following a disaster; and
(B)  procedures for:
(i)  vegetative debris burning, including the role of the Texas Department of Transportation in debris removal;
(ii)  the coordination of clearance and disposal of debris;
(iii)  obtaining equipment necessary for use immediately following a disaster; and
(iv)  the interaction between political subdivisions and state and federal agencies.
(c)  The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service shall establish a training program for state agencies and political subdivisions on the use of trench burners in debris removal.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 703 (H.B. 5), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.054 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(18), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0543. Contracting for Debris Removal

Sec. 418.0543.  CONTRACTING FOR DEBRIS REMOVAL.  (a)  The division, in consultation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, shall develop and publish a model contract for debris removal services to be used by political subdivisions following a disaster.
(b)  The division shall consult with the comptroller to:
(1)  establish appropriate contracting standards and contractor requirements to include in the model contract; and
(2)  include a contract for debris removal services on the schedule of multiple award contracts developed under Subchapter I, Chapter 2155, or in another cooperative purchasing program administered by the comptroller.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 703 (H.B. 5), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.055 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(18), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0544. Disaster Preparation Contracts

Sec. 418.0544.  DISASTER PREPARATION CONTRACTS.  (a)  The division, in consultation with other state agencies the division considers appropriate, shall develop a plan to assist political subdivisions of this state with executing contracts for services that political subdivisions are likely to need following a disaster.  The plan must include:
(1)  training on the benefits to a political subdivision from executing disaster preparation contracts in advance of a disaster;
(2)  recommendations on the services political subdivisions are likely to need following a disaster, including debris management and infrastructure repair; and
(3)  assistance to political subdivisions with finding persons capable of providing the services described by Subdivision (2) and executing contracts with those persons in advance of a disaster.
(b)  The division shall consult with the comptroller regarding including a contract for services a political subdivision is likely to need following a disaster, including debris management and infrastructure repair, on the schedule of multiple award contracts developed under Subchapter I, Chapter 2155, or as part of another cooperative purchasing program administered by the comptroller.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 945 (H.B. 7), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.054 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(16), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0545. Disaster Case Management System

Sec. 418.0545.  DISASTER CASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.  (a)  The division shall, subject to the availability of funds, contract with a vendor to develop and maintain an electronic disaster case management system.
(b)  The system developed under Subsection (a) may be used for case management during and after a disaster by persons selected by the division, including:
(1)  a person affected by a disaster;
(2)  a municipality or county affected by a disaster;
(3)  the Health and Human Services Commission;
(4)  the General Land Office;
(5)  the Department of State Health Services;
(6)  the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles;
(7)  the Texas Workforce Commission;
(8)  the Texas Department of Insurance;
(9)  the Department of Agriculture;
(10)  appropriate federal agencies; and
(11)  any other appropriate entity.
(c)  The system developed under Subsection (a) may include the capability for a person affected by a disaster to apply for assistance from multiple sources. The system must allow the person to control which other users of the system have access to information submitted by the person to the system.
(d)  Information collected or maintained by the system developed under Subsection (a) that could identify a person affected by a disaster is confidential and not subject to disclosure under Chapter 552. The information may be disclosed to a governmental body described by Subsection (b) for the purpose of disaster relief or recovery.
(e)  The division shall adopt rules necessary to implement this section.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1065 (H.B. 1307), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.054 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(17), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0546. Emergency Plan for Specialty Care Populations

Sec. 418.0546.  EMERGENCY PLAN FOR SPECIALTY CARE POPULATIONS.  The division, in consultation with the Department of State Health Services and local governmental entities that have established emergency management plans, shall develop a plan to increase the capabilities of local emergency shelters in the provision of shelter and care for specialty care populations during a disaster.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 614 (S.B. 982), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.054 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(19), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0547. Access to Local Volunteer Networks; Volunteer Mobile Medical Units

Sec. 418.0547.  ACCESS TO LOCAL VOLUNTEER NETWORKS; VOLUNTEER MOBILE MEDICAL UNITS.  (a)  The division, in consultation with the Department of State Health Services, shall increase awareness of and encourage local government emergency response teams to utilize services provided by local volunteer networks, including the Medical Reserve Corps, that are available in the area to respond during a disaster or emergency.
(b)  The division shall develop a plan to create and manage state-controlled volunteer mobile medical units in each public health region to assist counties that lack access to a volunteer network described by Subsection (a).
(c)  The Department of State Health Services shall collaborate with local medical organizations that represent licensed physicians who practice in a county or public health region to:
(1)  ensure the physicians are informed about local government emergency response teams and those teams are aware of physician resources in the county or region, as applicable;
(2)  compile and maintain a list of physicians in the county or region and the contact information for the physicians;
(3)  provide up-to-date information about resources for physicians regarding disaster planning, including continuing medical education;
(4)  promote the Texas Disaster Volunteer Registry and the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals;
(5)  consider incentives to assist with recruiting physician volunteers; and
(6)  encourage physicians and health professionals to advocate for disaster planning measures in health care facilities.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 614 (S.B. 982), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.055 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(19), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0548. Communications Immediately Following a Disaster

Sec. 418.0548.  COMMUNICATIONS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING A DISASTER.  The division, in collaboration with other appropriate entities selected by the division, shall to the extent practicable include private wireless communication, Internet, and cable service providers in the disaster planning process and determine the availability of the providers' portable satellite communications equipment and portable mobile telephone towers to assist in response and recovery immediately following disasters.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 285 (H.B. 2320), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.054 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(20), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0549. Hardening of Utility Facilities and Critical Infrastructure

Sec. 418.0549.  HARDENING OF UTILITY FACILITIES AND CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.  (a)  In this section, "critical infrastructure" includes hospitals and fire stations.
(b)  The division shall identify methods for hardening utility facilities and critical infrastructure in order to maintain operations of essential services during disasters.
(c)  The division shall, in collaboration with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the Railroad Commission of Texas, and any other state agencies selected by the division:
(1)  determine methods for effectively reducing risks and impacts on utility facilities and critical infrastructure from a disaster; and
(2)  encourage public and private entities that are responsible for utility facilities and critical infrastructure to implement the methods determined under Subdivision (1).
(d)  This section does not apply to a utility facility owned or controlled by a utility regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 285 (H.B. 2320), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.055 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(20), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.055. Information Sharing Work Group

Sec. 418.055.  INFORMATION SHARING WORK GROUP.  (a)  In this section, "work group" means the work group established under this section.
(b)  The division shall establish a work group of state agencies involved in disaster management.  The work group consists of members appointed by the chief of the division who represent:
(1)  the comptroller's office;
(2)  the Department of State Health Services;
(3)  the Texas Department of Transportation;
(4)  the General Land Office;
(5)  the Health and Human Services Commission;
(6)  institutions of higher education; and
(7)  to the extent practicable, appropriate federal agencies.
(c)  The work group shall develop recommendations for improving the manner in which electronic information is stored by and shared among state agencies and between state agencies and federal agencies to improve the capacity of the agencies to:
(1)  respond to a disaster; and
(2)  coordinate the agencies' responses to a disaster.
(d)  Not later than November 1 of each even-numbered year, the work group shall submit the group's recommendations to the governor.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 286 (H.B. 2340), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0551. Permitting Task Force

Sec. 418.0551.  PERMITTING TASK FORCE.  (a)  The division shall form a task force with representatives from the General Land Office, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas Water Development Board, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Department of State Health Services, Public Utility Commission of Texas, and Texas Historical Commission to be activated if a state of disaster is declared under Section 418.014 because of weather conditions to expedite:
(1)  environmental permitting; and
(2)  access to funds from federal disaster relief programs following the disaster.
(b)  The task force formed under this section shall develop recommendations for expediting the evaluation of environmental permits during disaster recovery in order for local entities to demonstrate compliance with regulations and access federal disaster relief programs and funding.
(c)  In performing its duties under this section, the task force may use resources of agencies participating in the task force.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 286 (H.B. 2340), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.056 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(24), eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 418 - Emergency Management › Subchapter C. Texas Division of Emergency Management › Section 418.0552. Business Advisory Council

Sec. 418.0552.  BUSINESS ADVISORY COUNCIL.  (a)  In this section, "advisory council" means the business advisory council established under this section.
(b)  The business advisory council is established to provide advice and expertise on actions state and local governments can take to assist businesses in recovering from a disaster.
(c)  The advisory council is composed of 12 members who represent business in this state appointed as follows:
(1)  four members appointed by the governor;
(2)  four members appointed by the lieutenant governor; and
(3)  four members appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives.
(d)  Members of the advisory council serve staggered four-year terms.
(e)  An advisory council member is not entitled to compensation but is entitled to reimbursement for travel expenses incurred by the member while conducting the business of the advisory council.
(f)  The advisory council members shall elect a presiding officer from among the members.
(g)  The advisory council shall:
(1)  advise the division on policies, rules, and program operations to assist businesses in recovering from a disaster;
(2)  advise the division on the state resources and services needed to assist businesses in recovering from a catastrophic loss of electric power; and
(3)  propose solutions to address inefficiencies or problems in the state or local governmental disaster response with respect to impact on businesses and the economy.
(h)  The advisory council shall meet at the times and locations determined by the presiding officer, not to exceed four meetings each year.
(i)  Not later than November 1 of each even-numbered year, the advisory council shall submit a report on the advisory council's activities, advice, and proposed solutions to the division, the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the speaker of the house of representatives.
(j)  The division shall provide administrative support to the advisory council.
(k)  Chapter 2110 does not apply to the advisory council.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 602 (S.B. 799), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 418.054 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(22), eff. September 1, 2021.