Governor Greg Abbott renewed and amended the state’s drought disaster proclamation on March 18, affecting numerous counties across Texas. The action follows confirmation from the Texas Division of Emergency Management that exceptional drought conditions continue to threaten several areas, increasing wildfire risks.
The renewal of this disaster declaration is significant as it allows state and local agencies to use all available resources to address ongoing drought impacts. It also enables the suspension of certain regulatory statutes or administrative rules that could hinder emergency response efforts, provided such suspensions are approved by the Office of the Governor.
“I do hereby amend and renew the aforementioned proclamation and declare a disaster in Angelina, Aransas, Atascosa… Zapata, and Zavala Counties,” Abbott said in his official statement. He further authorized “the use of all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with this disaster.” The governor also stated that any regulatory statute or rule impeding emergency response may be suspended for the duration of the declared disaster.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to Texas leading the nation in job growth and record employment levels. The office maintains its primary location at the State Insurance Building in Austin, as reported by the official website. Abbott was recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to the official website.
The governor’s office focuses on job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security according to its official website. Since his election in 2014, Abbott has led statewide services through his office according to its official website.
Copies of this renewed proclamation will be filed with applicable authorities as required by law. As drought conditions persist across many parts of Texas, officials expect continued coordination between state agencies and local governments.
