Gov. Greg Abbott Extends Drought Disaster Proclamation Amid Severe Texas Dry Spell

As drought continues to worsen in Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has taken further steps to address the ongoing crisis. Yesterday, Abbott renewed and amended the existing drought disaster proclamation, marking a prolonged battle with dry conditions that have not let up since their onset in July 2022. Affected regions include an extensive list of counties where exceptional drought conditions persist and pose threats to life, property, and the state's agriculture.

According to the information provided by the Governor's office, the amended proclamation authorizes the use of "all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with this disaster." The governor's declaration puts in relief the stark reality facing the large swathe of Texas counties still grappling with one of the most basic elements of life: water.

Working under the authority of Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code, Governor Abbott's proclamation additionally suspends any regulatory statutes and administrative rules that could delay necessary action in response to the drought. As per his statement, this includes the enforcement of any state statute or rule regarding contracting or procurement that would hinder the emergency response. The urgency conveyed by the suspension of such processes underscores the gravity of the dry conditions Texans are enduring.

Finally, the office of the Secretary of State, Jane Nelson, has asserted its duty by filing copies of this proclamation with the appropriate entities as required by law. The actions taken by Governor Abbott, in consultation with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, lay down a framework aimed at immediate response and relief, as per the Office of the Texas Governor.