Governor Greg Abbott has amended and renewed the drought disaster proclamation for several Texas counties, originally issued on July 8, 2022. The action follows confirmation from the Texas Division of Emergency Management that drought conditions persist in some areas and continue to increase wildfire risk.
“WHEREAS, I, GREG ABBOTT, Governor of the State of Texas, issued a disaster proclamation on July 8, 2022, as amended and renewed in a number of subsequent proclamations, certifying that exceptional drought conditions posed a threat of imminent disaster in several counties; and
WHEREAS, the Texas Division of Emergency Management has confirmed that those same drought conditions persist in certain counties in Texas and that the presence of drought conditions in certain counties contributes to increased wildfire danger;
NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with the authority vested in me by Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code, I do hereby amend and renew the aforementioned proclamation and declare a disaster in Aransas, Atascosa, Austin, Bandera, Bastrop, Bee, Bexar…” Abbott stated.
The proclamation covers numerous counties across Texas. Under Section 418.017 of the Texas Government Code, all available resources from state government and political subdivisions may be used as necessary to address this ongoing situation.
Abbott further explained: “Pursuant to Section 418.016 of the Texas Government Code, any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or any order or rule of a state agency that would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with this disaster shall be suspended upon written approval of the Office of the Governor. However…I hereby authorize the suspension of such statutes and rules for the duration of this declared disaster.”
The governor’s office maintains its primary offices at the State Insurance Building in Austin and delivers services statewide across Texas according to its official website https://gov.texas.gov/. Greg Abbott has led the office since his election in 2014 https://gov.texas.gov/ and was named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 https://gov.texas.gov/. The office is recognized for focusing on job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, individual liberties protection, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security https://gov.texas.gov/. Additionally, under Abbott’s leadership Texas has led national job growth with record employment levels https://gov.texas.gov/.
The current renewal ensures continued emergency response measures remain active while drought conditions persist.
“In accordance with the statutory requirements, copies of this proclamation shall be filed with the applicable authorities.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF…I have officially caused the Seal of State to be affixed at my office in…Austin…this…16th day of February 2026,” Abbott concluded.
