Beryl

Texas State Law Challenges Local Efforts to Enhance Safety at Assisted Living Facilities Post-Hurricane Beryl

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HOUSTON, Texas — In response to Hurricane Beryl, Harris County has introduced an innovative regulation mandating that assisted living facilities install backup power systems. This move aims to protect the elderly population during power outages. However, a newly enacted state law has the potential to undermine this local initiative. House Bill 3595, which was signed into law earlier this year, includes provisions that allow state regulations to take precedence over local ordinances. This means that the requirements set forth by Harris County, including the installation of generators that can power air conditioning and essential systems … Read more

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Rushes Back to Lead Storm Response as Tropical Storm Beryl Nears

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HOUSTON — As Tropical Storm Beryl nears the Texas coast amid a bustling Fourth of July weekend, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced her early return from a previously scheduled trip. Hidalgo, who initially departed with assurances from emergency management that it was safe to do so, decided to come back after the storm’s forecast shifted, potentially putting her jurisdiction at greater risk. Hidalgo took to social media to communicate her movements, emphasizing that she had left Houston based on professional advice indicating that the storm posed no immediate threat at the time. However, the … Read more