Texas HB523 amends disaster response laws to clarify authority and limit infringement on constitutional rights.

Texas HB523 amends the Texas Government Code to refine the authority of the governor, legislature, and courts during declared states of disaster. The bill specifies that only the governor can issue orders that significantly infringe on constitutional rights, such as the right to travel or religious exercise. It mandates that such orders must be narrowly tailored to serve a compelling public health or safety purpose. The bill also grants state courts jurisdiction to expedite cases challenging disaster orders.

Texas HB523 amends disaster response laws to clarify authority and limit infringement on constitutional rights.

Texas HB523 amends the Texas Government Code to refine the authority of the governor, legislature, and courts during declared states of disaster. The bill specifies that only the governor can issue orders that significantly infringe on constitutional rights, such as the right to travel or religious exercise. It mandates that such orders must be narrowly tailored to serve a compelling public health or safety purpose. The bill also grants state courts jurisdiction to expedite cases challenging disaster orders.