Summary
Texas lawmakers are reviewing the July 4 floods that killed at least 136 people to find ways to prevent future disasters, without assigning blame. The floods in the Texas Hill Country and the proposed redrawing of U.S. House maps are the main topics for the state's special session this summer.
Key Facts
- The review of the July 4 floods aims to improve flood prevention and preparedness, not to blame local officials.
- At least 136 people died in the floods, with two still missing, and many initially unaccounted for were later found safe.
- The review includes testimony from state and county emergency officials, excluding Kerr County officials to let them focus on their duties.
- Kerr County, heavily affected by the floods, lacked a warning system for river flooding.
- Proposed legislation includes improving early warning systems and providing relief funding.
- The special legislative session will also address redrawing U.S. House maps to potentially increase Republican seats.
- Democrats want flood issues resolved before voting on congressional maps and may use walkouts to protest.
- Texas officials have threatened penalties for lawmakers who attempt to disrupt the special session through tactics like walkouts.
