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Governor Greg Abbott has amended and renewed a wildfire disaster proclamation originally issued on October 14, 2024. This decision comes as elevated fire weather conditions continue to threaten several counties in Texas. The Texas Division of Emergency Management confirmed the persistence of these hazardous conditions.
In his statement, Governor Abbott declared a disaster in numerous counties across the state, including Anderson, Andrews, Angelina, Aransas, Archer, Armstrong, Atascosa, Austin, Bailey, Bandera, Bastrop, Baylor, Bee, Bell, Bexar and many others.
"NOW THEREFORE," he stated under Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code to amend and renew the disaster proclamation for affected areas.
The governor also invoked Section 418.017 of the Texas Government Code to authorize "the use of all available resources of state government and political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with this disaster."
Furthermore, Governor Abbott noted that "any regulatory statute prescribing procedures for conduct of state business or any order or rule of a state agency" that might hinder necessary actions will be suspended upon written approval from his office.
He added that statutes or rules related to contracting or procurement would also be suspended if they impede emergency responses required to protect life or property during this declared disaster.
As per statutory requirements, copies of this proclamation will be filed with relevant authorities. Governor Abbott signed the document on March 4th in Austin.
This move is part of ongoing efforts by the state government to address fire-related threats effectively.