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Bill

Bill

SB 3

Relating to making supplemental appropriations for disaster relief and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding those appropriations.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 16 co-sponsors

Texas bill authorizes supplemental disaster relief funding with flexible reallocation authority for state officials handling emergency recovery.

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Bill Summary · SB 3

Legislative bill overview

SB 3 authorizes supplemental appropriations (additional emergency funding) for disaster relief efforts in Texas and grants direction and adjustment authority to state officials regarding how those funds are allocated and spent. The bill does not specify the exact dollar amount or which disasters are covered, as these details would typically be determined through the appropriations process.

Why is this important

Disaster relief funding is critical for recovery efforts following hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other emergencies that affect Texas communities. Granting "adjustment authority" allows state officials flexibility to redirect funds to areas of greatest need without requiring additional legislative approval, which can be essential when conditions change rapidly after a disaster.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of specificity: The bill provides limited detail about funding amounts, eligible disasters, or specific uses, which may concern legislators seeking transparency and accountability measures
  • Executive flexibility vs. oversight: Granting broad "adjustment authority" to state officials reduces legislative oversight of how taxpayer money is spent, raising questions about accountability
  • Disaster definition: No clear criteria stated for which events qualify as disasters eligible for these funds, potentially allowing discretionary application

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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