Texas Creates Group to Study Alert Notification Systems

Texas is taking action to improve how emergency alerts reach everyone. HB 48 creates a working group of nine members appointed by the Texas Division of Emergency Management. This group will study all state alert notification systems and how well they work for different people. The working group will review current alert systems used by the Department of Public Safety and the Texas Division of Emergency Management. They will evaluate state and federal regulations, look at problems with alert fatigue, and explore ways to make systems work better. The group will also study how effectively alerts reach people who are deaf, people with chronic illnesses, and seniors. The team will hold hearings and work sessions to gather information. They can consult with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other agencies to understand what works best. By December 1, 2026, they must submit a report to the governor, lieutenant governor, and legislature with their findings and recommendations for new laws. This study helps our community receive emergency information more effectively. The working group will expire on January 1, 2027, after delivering its final report and suggestions to lawmakers.