Bill > SB3

This bill establishes a new grant program and requirements for outdoor warning sirens in flash flood-prone areas, specifically focusing on regions impacted by the July 2025 Hill Country floods. The Office of the Governor will create and administer a grant program to help municipalities, counties, and other governmental entities cover the costs of installing outdoor warning sirens. The Texas Water Development Board is tasked with identifying areas that require these sirens based on factors such as flooding history, potential loss of human life, existence of residential structures, and property damage risk. Municipalities or counties will be responsible for installing, maintaining, and operating these sirens in their respective jurisdictions, with provisions for joint agreements between entities. The sirens must meet specific best management practices, including having a backup power source, and must be regularly tested for functionality. As an incentive for compliance, the board may withhold financial assistance from counties or municipalities that do not meet these new siren requirements. The bill also allows the governor to transfer funds and delegate authority to state agencies to help implement the program, providing a comprehensive approach to improving flood warning systems in vulnerable areas.