Texas Forms Bipartisan Flood Committees Amid Controversy

In response to severe Hill Country floods, Texas legislative leaders have established both House and Senate bipartisan committees to address flood preparedness, warning systems, emergency communications, and relief funding. The Senate committee is chaired by Sen. Charles Perry with Sen. Pete Flores as vice-chair, and both panels will hold public hearings on July 23 in Austin and July 31 in Kerrville. Governor Greg Abbott expanded the special session agenda to include a 'bathroom bill' requiring restroom use in public facilities based on sex assigned at birth, drawing criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates who argue it detracts from flood recovery efforts. Critics also note that none of the 82 bills filed so far directly address flood relief. The committees are responsible for shaping all flood response legislation during the special session. Residents from affected areas will have the opportunity to provide testimony to guide policy decisions.