The Advocacy Update: August 13, 2025
Stay informed without the overwhelm. The Advocacy Update delivers clear, curated legislative updates restoration contractors can trust, highlighting the bills, policies, and issues that matter most to your business. Each week, get a quick, actionable overview to keep you prepared and ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.
Key Takeaways:
- Disaster Response: With just six days left in their special session, two bills relating to Disaster Response have seen movement in Texas. Legislation has been slowed due to the state legislature being unable to reach the required quorum at this time.
Disaster Response
TX SB 1 aims to improve disaster preparedness, response, and recovery in the state. Notably, SB 1 establishes a licensing framework for emergency managers, an online volunteer management system, and a small- and micro-business disaster recovery program for immediate financial relief. Having been introduced on August 6th, the bill has already passed through the Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness & Flooding unanimously and awaits a Senate floor vote this week. If passed, this bill would significantly improve disaster preparedness in the state. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick spoke in support of SB 1, in addition to SB 2 and 3 which are a part of the state’s Disaster Preparedness and Flood Relief Package:
“After the July 4th flooding across Texas, the Senate acted quickly to develop a comprehensive plan to improve disaster preparedness and recovery, upgrade outdoor warning systems and communications, and direct funding toward the Hill Country’s rebuilding efforts. This bipartisan package is a crucial step in helping communities recover from last month’s devastating events and in reducing the risk to human life in future disasters.” August 12th Statement
Similar to SB 1, TX HB 292 establishes a disaster recovery fund in the state to supplement financial assistance provided by the federal government. Eligible claimants are those who have experienced direct personal injury, financial loss, or property damage due to qualifying weather events, with applications for compensation to be submitted within two years. Compensation can cover the costs of property repair, medical bills, temporary housing, lost wages, and other recovery-related expenses. If passed, this bill would take effect on January 1st, 2026, but does not contain a retroactive clause for previous disasters; this bill would better compensate residents for property damage, allowing them to more readily hire contractors following a disaster. While HB 292 is sponsored by a member of the majority party, the bill has not progressed since its introduction.
Additional States in Session
The Alaska legislature was called into a special session on Saturday and Delaware started a special session on August 12, but of these special sessions are not currently scheduled to hear bills that impact the restoration industry.
Bill volume remains low across the country.
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