Governor Greg Abbott renewed and amended a disaster proclamation on March 18, declaring that exceptional drought conditions continue to threaten several Texas counties. The action follows confirmation from the Texas Division of Emergency Management that persistent drought is contributing to increased wildfire danger in affected areas.
The renewal of the disaster proclamation allows state and local agencies to use all available resources to address the ongoing situation. It also suspends certain regulatory statutes and administrative rules that could hinder emergency response efforts, provided such suspensions are approved by the Office of the Governor. The proclamation covers a wide range of counties across Texas, including Angelina, Bexar, Brazos, Cameron, Hidalgo, Travis, Webb, Williamson, and many others.
“Pursuant to Section 418.017 of the Texas Government Code, I authorize the use of all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with this disaster,” Abbott said in the official statement. He further authorized suspension of regulations that might delay necessary actions during this declared disaster period.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott has led his office since his election in 2014 and has focused on job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security. The office maintains its primary location at the State Insurance Building in Austin and delivers services statewide across Texas according to the official website.
Abbott’s leadership has been recognized nationally; he was listed among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to the official website. Under his administration, Texas has led the nation in jobs growth and record employment levels according to the official website.
The current disaster declaration will remain active as long as drought conditions persist or until it is rescinded by further executive action.
