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HB 164

Relating to the Texas Flood Recovery, Reimbursement, and Reconstruction Program; authorizing a civil penalty.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Wes Virdell

HB 164 creates or modifies Texas's flood recovery program and authorizes civil penalties for program violations, currently pending committee review.

Left pending in committee
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #emergencymanagement #texasdivisionof(vp6fw) #federalemergencymanagementagency(v1040) #floods(s0327) #generallandoffice(v2808) #internet(s0130) #legislativebudgetboard(v0161) #stateagencies #boards&commissions(i0749) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · HB 164

Legislative bill overview

HB 164 establishes or modifies the Texas Flood Recovery, Reimbursement, and Reconstruction Program and authorizes the state to impose civil penalties related to program compliance or fraud. The bill was recently heard in committee but remains pending without detailed legislative text currently available for full analysis.

Why is this important

Flood recovery programs distribute significant state resources to affected communities and individuals. Civil penalty provisions create enforcement mechanisms to prevent misuse of recovery funds, though the specific penalty amounts and triggers will determine the practical impact on recipients and program administration.

Potential points of contention

  • Penalty severity and scope: The amount and circumstances for civil penalties are undefined in available summaries—penalties could be proportionate or excessive depending on legislative language
  • Appeal and due process protections: Whether recipients have adequate opportunity to contest penalties before enforcement, particularly for genuine errors versus intentional fraud
  • Program access barriers: Strict enforcement mechanisms may deter legitimate applicants from seeking recovery assistance due to fear of penalties, potentially reducing program effectiveness

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

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