Governor Greg Abbott delivered a statewide address to discuss the recent power outages experienced across Texas and the state's ongoing recovery response to the winter storm.
"Many of you are angry, and you have a right to be. I'm angry too," Abbott said. "At a time when essential services were needed the most, the system broke. You deserve answers. You will get those answers."
The governor went on to say he has made the state's response to the winter storm an emergency item this legislative session.
"I am already working on solutions with the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house, and the state legislature. First is protecting you," he said. "It is outrageous for residents to be saddled with skyrocketing power bills."
The governor said the state is investigating multiple electric providers regarding the spikes.
"Texans will not have their power shut off because of unpaid bills until the legislature has time to act on this," Abbott said.
The governor once again called for the overhaul of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. On Wednesday, five board members resigned following the massive power outage.
Lastly, Abbott discussed his decision to make the winterization and stabilization of the state's power infrastructure a legislative priority.
"This will protect our power grid from future winter weather events," he said.
Abbott ended by stating the legislative session will not end until these problems have been addressed.
"We will ensure that the tragic events of the past week are never repeated," he said. "Your safety is my top concern."
To watch the full address, click the video at the top of this article.
