Sec. 418.113. DISASTER DISTRICTS. (a) This state is divided into disaster districts to engage in homeland security preparedness and response activities. The boundaries of the disaster districts coincide with the geographic boundaries of the state planning regions established by the governor under Chapter 391, Local Government Code.

(b) A disaster district committee is established for each disaster district. Each committee is composed of local representatives of the state agencies, boards, and commissions and organized volunteer groups with representation on the emergency management council.

(c) Each disaster district committee shall coordinate with political subdivisions located in the disaster district to ensure that state and federal emergency assets are made available as needed to provide the most efficient and effective response possible.

(d) The public safety director of the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas shall appoint a commanding officer from the Texas Highway Patrol to serve as chair of each disaster district committee. The chair shall:

(1) inform the state Director of Homeland Security on all matters relating to disasters and emergencies as requested by the state Director of Homeland Security; and

(2) inform the public safety director of the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas on all matters as requested by the public safety director.

(e) Representatives of the emergency management council assigned to each district shall assist the chair of their disaster district committee and provide guidance, counsel, and administrative support as required.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 258 (S.B. 11), Sec. 1.07, eff. June 6, 2007.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 865 (H.B. 1471), Sec. 1.07, eff. June 15, 2007.