Austin, Texas–Today, Senator Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe) issued the following statement following the first hearing of the Senate Select Committee on Hurricane and Tropical Storm Preparedness and Recovery.

“Hurricane Beryl swept through southeast Texas and left behind significant challenges– but nothing the region has not weathered before. However, the preparation, communication, and execution of response were unacceptable, costly and deadly.

The widespread failures in the aftermath of the storm cannot be overstated. Millions of Texans were without power for extended periods with little to no communication from utility companies. Families, businesses, critical services, assisted living centers and even hospitals were left wondering when, and if, their power would be restored.

Today was the first step in getting answers of what went wrong, investigating the failures, righting the wrongs, and holding those responsible accountable.

Hurricane season stretches another 124 days–so there is no time for excuses or finger pointing. With strong oversight from the state, Centerpoint will be held accountable, and legislation will be passed next session to ensure the entire state is better prepared and more resilient in future storms.

The leadership demonstrated throughout the storm at the local level was excellent and I want to thank all of the local elected officials from Senate District 4 who came to testify at today’s hearing.

Today was just the first step–Texans should feel confident that there will be consequences for the failures, and solutions going forward.”

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