Texas House Committee Discusses Flood Relief Bills Amid Quorum Crisis

The Texas House Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding continues to advance legislation addressing the aftermath of the deadly Central Texas floods despite a lack of quorum caused by many House Democrats leaving the state in protest of a new congressional map. The committee, chaired by Rep. Ken King, has discussed five priority bills including requirements for flood disaster plans, licensing for emergency management coordinators, and certification programs for disaster relief groups to ensure legitimacy during emergencies. Republicans emphasize pressing forward with the legislative work regardless of political standoffs, aiming to improve emergency preparedness and response systems. Democrats on the committee, including Rep. Joe Moody, stress the urgency of immediate action through executive authority or existing laws in addition to new legislation, expressing frustration over the absence of state administration representatives at the hearings. The bills remain pending but are expected to be voted on once the House regains quorum, with the committee committed to continuing its work during the special session. Public hearings have allowed community input, highlighting the critical need for enhanced disaster readiness and recovery support across Texas.