HHS Sec declares health emergency in Texas post-Beryl.

U.S. Declares Public Health Emergency in Texas After Hurricane Beryl##

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public health emergency in Texas, in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, which has left hundreds of thousands without power amid sweltering heat waves.

This declaration comes on the heels of President Biden's disaster declaration, offering federal funds to the state. The White House criticized Gov. Abbott for delays in requesting federal aid.

"The combination of severe heat and limited access to electricity is dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations and those relying on electricity-dependent durable medical equipment and certain healthcare services," Dawn O'Connell, Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, Health and Human Services.

Impact of the Public Health Emergency Declaration:

• Greater Access to Federal Funds: The declaration provides Texas with enhanced access to federal funds and resources, such as grants and equipment.
• Flexibility with Medicare and Medicaid: It allows for more flexible utilization of Medicare and Medicaid, with certain regulatory waivers.
• Interagency Collaboration: Federal agencies, including the CDC, are coordinating with Texas health officials to disseminate vital health and safety information.
• Targeted Assistance: HHS is providing data to local officials to identify vulnerable Texans reliant on electricity-dependent medical devices or regular care disrupted by storms.

Aftermath of Hurricane Beryl:

• Power Outages: Over 1.3 million Texans endured power outages as of Thursday, days after the storm's landfall. poweroutage.us
• Supplier Backlash: Major electricity suppliers, CenterPoint Energy and Entergy Texas, face criticism for slow restoration, with only 50% of customers' power restored days after the storm.
• Calls for Investigation: Gov. Abbott has called for an investigation into CenterPoint's response. CenterPoint CEO Jason Ryan pledged to continue restoration efforts.
• Scrutiny of Gov. Abbott: Abbott has faced scrutiny for his absence during the storm, having been on pre-scheduled trips with diplomats in Asia.
• Political Tensions: Biden's criticism of Abbott's delayed emergency declaration was labeled as politicizing the crisis by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.