Bill > HB292

This bill establishes a Disaster Recovery Fund in Texas to provide financial assistance to state residents who suffer losses from severe weather events when federal disaster relief is insufficient. The fund will be administered by the state division and can receive money from legislative appropriations, federal grants, donations, and interest earnings. Eligible claimants (Texas residents who have suffered direct personal injury, financial loss, or property damage from a qualifying weather event) can apply for compensation within two years of the event for expenses such as property repairs, medical costs, temporary housing, lost wages, and other recovery-related expenses. Claimants must submit an application with proof of residency, documentation of losses, and evidence that the loss resulted from a qualifying weather event. The division will have the authority to set compensation limits, prioritize claims based on need and event severity, and must approve or deny claims within 60 days of receiving a complete application. However, claim payments are contingent on legislative appropriations, and claimants who intentionally contributed to their loss or who will be fully reimbursed by insurance or other assistance programs are not eligible. The fund is designed to provide a state-level safety net for residents impacted by natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, fires, tornadoes, and extreme weather conditions. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=891&Bill=HB292