Texas Lt. Gov. Patrick names Perry chair of Senate flood committee

Following the devastating floods in Central Texas that resulted in over 130 deaths, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick formed a Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding, appointing Senator Charles Perry of Lubbock as chair. The committee will focus on flood warning systems, emergency communications, relief funding, and disaster preparation and recovery, with its first meeting scheduled in Austin on July 23 and a subsequent hearing in Kerrville on July 31 to gather public testimony. Members include seven Republicans and two Democrats, such as Sens. Pete Flores, Paul Bettencourt, César Blanco, and José Menéndez. Senator Perry emphasized the importance of using scientific data and weather patterns to develop better flood response protocols and plans, building on previous efforts after Hurricane Harvey. Governor Greg Abbott has included flood-related issues on the special session agenda, with proposals like flood warning sirens being considered. The committee aims to hear directly from affected residents and local officials to improve state flood management strategies.