Bill > HB1168

This bill directs the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to conduct a comprehensive 50-year study on the potential impacts of droughts and wildfires in Texas. The study must examine ecological effects such as damage to plants, animals, water bodies, and public lands; urban temperature impacts including increased energy and water demand, public health challenges, potential business productivity declines, and tourism effects; economic consequences like agricultural losses and infrastructure damage; vulnerabilities to droughts and wildfires; local resource availability for fire response and drought adaptation; and potential mitigation strategies. TDEM is required to collaborate with multiple state agencies including the Department of Public Safety, Department of Agriculture, Parks and Wildlife Department, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. By March 1, 2026, TDEM must submit a written report to state leadership and relevant legislative committees, including a study summary and legislative recommendations. The bill will expire on January 1, 2027, and will take effect either immediately with a two-thirds legislative vote or on September 1, 2025, if immediate passage is not achieved.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1168