WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 274

Relating to requiring congregate living facilities to maintain a flood disaster plan and conduct an annual flood disaster plan drill; authorizing a civil penalty.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025)

Texas bill requiring congregate living facilities to maintain flood plans and conduct annual drills, with civil penalties for non-compliance.

Filed
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #emergencymanagement #texasdivisionof(vp6fw) #floods(s0327) #housing--general(i0405) #safety(i0740)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 274

Legislative bill overview

HB 274 requires congregate living facilities (such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes) in Texas to develop and maintain formal flood disaster plans and conduct mandatory annual drills to test those plans. The bill also authorizes the state to impose civil penalties on facilities that fail to comply with these requirements.

Why is this important

Congregate living facilities house vulnerable populations—elderly residents, people with disabilities, and others with limited mobility—who face heightened risks during flooding events. Mandatory planning and drills can improve emergency response coordination, reduce confusion during actual disasters, and potentially save lives. Texas faces recurring flood threats, making preparedness particularly relevant for facilities in flood-prone areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden: Facilities may argue that developing and annually drilling flood plans creates administrative costs and resource demands, particularly for smaller or rural operators with limited budgets
  • Scope and specificity: The bill's language doesn't specify what constitutes an adequate plan or drill, potentially leading to disputes over enforcement standards and inconsistent compliance across facilities
  • Applicability questions: It's unclear whether all congregate living facilities are covered equally or if exemptions exist for facilities in low-risk areas, raising fairness concerns about one-size-fits-all requirements

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

Sign in to ask a question.