In Texas, emergency management plans are put in place when there is an emergency on the ground that calls for government intervention. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, are common examples, but the global pandemic is a current, ongoing example that is difficult to miss. Those who refuse to comply with emergency management plans can find themselves facing criminal charges, but it is important to remember that you have legal rights and that an experienced Lampasas criminal attorney can help you protect them.
The Purpose of Emergency Management Plans in the State of Texas
The purpose behind emergency management plans in Texas are threefold and include:
Reducing the vulnerability of communities and individuals throughout Texas to injury, damage, loss of property, and/or loss of life in the face of natural or man-made catastrophes, hostile military or paramilitary actions, and/or riots
Preparing for the prompt and efficient rescue, treatment, and/or care of those individuals who are threatened or harmed by the disaster in question
Setting up an environment that is conducive to swiftly and efficiently restoring and/or rehabilitating those individuals and properties that are affected by the disaster in question.
Ultimately, Texas law is highly specific about when emergency management plans go into effect and what they cover.
The Penalty for Violating an Emergency Management Plan
If you are found in violation of an emergency management plan, you can face a fine of up to $1,000 and a jail sentence of up to 180 days. Ultimately, such a charge is a criminal charge, and a conviction can permanently mar your record in surprising ways. Because your conviction will be a matter of public record, it can have all of the following negative social consequences (in addition to the legal consequences involved):
A conviction can make obtaining a new job extremely difficult. Additionally, if you do spend time in jail, your job may not be waiting for you when you get out.
A conviction can make renting a home difficult, and it can be an obstacle to obtaining a home loan.
A conviction can cause you to lose professional licensure and/or standing.
A conviction can cause you to lose social standing generally.
A conviction can limit your ability to obtain a federal student loan, to attend the college of your choice, and/or to live on campus during your tenure.