BLOG: Texas lawmakers hearing reveals lack of flood disaster preparedness

AUSTIN (Nexstar) — Texas lawmakers convened Wednesday for the first hearing of the Joint Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding. The 18 senators and representatives heard invited testimony about the state’s response and preparedness for the devastating Independence Day floods in Central Texas, which killed over 130 people.

The committees, chaired by Rep. Ken King, R-Canadian, in the House, and Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, in the Senate, were convened in response to Gov. Greg Abbott’s call to address weather emergency warning systems and flood relief in his special session proclamation. Some legislation has already been filed, with more on the way.

The first hearing of the committee discussed the state’s response to the flooding, the state’s disaster preparedness more generally, flood planning and infrastructure, river authority operations in “Flash Flood Alley” and first responder communications during disasters.

Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd highlighted issues on communication, coordination and organization — including volunteer struggles after the disaster. Kidd also advocated for his department, urging for more funds so the department could expand on their four statewide bases.

“I need 4,5 more. I would like to be no more than three hours from every Texan,” Kidd said.

While Texans came together to help each other after the flood devastations, organizing volunteers was another problem the state and local government lacked.

Kidd supported for stronger control of volunteers, noting that the lack of organization slowed down the response for help.

“But they’re not organized which makes us stop what we’re doing to get them organized and slows down the response,” Kidd said.

The committee met well into the night at the Capitol. No public testimony was permitted at this hearing, but a second hearing will take place in Kerrville July 31 with public testimony permitted for residents to speak about their experience.

What to know:

• MAP: Where have flash flooding deaths been confirmed in Texas?
• Here’s what we know about the Central Texas flooding victims
• Resources for Texans affected by flooding

Follow along for updates from Wednesday’s hearing.