The Senate panel consists of seven Republicans and two Democrats. It first meets in Austin next week, then in Kerrville on July 31.

The groups also want lawmakers to examine land-use practices and consider ways to protect natural resources, which they say will in turn help protect lives.

Gov. Greg Abbott has expanded the agenda for a special legislative session to address the recent deadly flooding in Texas.

Michael Coen, chief of staff of FEMA under former presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, called on the state to be more proactive in preparing for disasters.

The first bills related to revamping disaster preparedness in the aftermath of the deadly flooding have been filed.

The first State Flood Plan, published last year, identified $54 billion in flood mitigation, warning and data needs. The state has awarded around $660 million since the plan was published, with a special legislative session coming.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Speaker Dustin Burrows have announced joint House and Senate select committees to examine disaster preparedness and flood response.

Gavin Newsom's warning to Donald Trump over plan for Texas Republicans

As a devastating flash flood in Texas over the weekend has left at least 82 people dead, including 28 children, it's raising critical questions regarding emergency preparedness and federal response.

LLANO, Texas - People who live in Llano are preparing for the possibility of more rain after already being flooded. The water level on the Llano River has been described as up and down recently. "A couple of days ago it was a lot worse, a lot higher. I know there’s still water coming down," Liberty Hill resident Glenn Roberts said.

For many in Oklahoma, summer means summer camp. But as the flooding tragedy unfolds in Texas, how are camps preparing in case of emergencies?