DISASTER- Hurricane Dolly

Chapter 418 of the Texas Government Code provides for disaster and emergency management actions for state and local political subdivisions.  Sec. 418.014 specifically empowers the governor to declare a state of emergency by either executive order or proclamation.  Sec. 418.016 and 418.017 specifically empower the governor to suspend rules and direct that necessary measures are taken to protect the state.  An executive order or proclamation must be distributed promptly to bring its message to the attention of the general public.  It must be filed promptly with the division of emergency management, the secretary of state and the county clerk or city secretary in each area to which it applies. 

This proclamation declares a state of disaster in 14 Texas counties due to a threat of imminent danger caused by Tropical Storm Dolly.  This proclamation allows the governor to use all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with this disaster.  This proclamation allows the governor to temporarily reassign resources, personnel, or functions of state executive departments and agencies or their units for the purpose of performing or facilitating emergency services.  This proclamation allows the governor to commandeer or use any private property if the governor finds it necessary to cope with a disaster, subject to the compensation requirements of this chapter.  This proclamation suspends the provisions of any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or the orders or rules of a state agency if strict compliance with the provisions, orders, or rules in any way prevent, hinder, or  delay necessary action in coping with this  disaster event.

This proclamation would be effective for 30 days from the date it is signed.  It will be filed immediately that same day with the Secretary of State.  The Division of Emergency Management will immediately file a copy with each county covered by the order.