Texas House Bill HB3547

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/27/11
• Voted on by House: 5/4/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/13/11
• Report Pass: 4/20/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 5/4/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 5/13/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to enforcement by a local government of fire safety standards at certain child-care facilities.

Impact

The introduction of HB3547 represents a shift in the regulatory framework pertaining to child-care safety within Texas. By enabling local governments to enforce state fire safety standards, the bill effectively centralizes the enforcement of critical safety measures at the local level. This is particularly significant for communities that may have varying conditions and needs regarding child-care service provision. Moreover, local governments are mandated to report any observed violations, creating a direct channel for oversight and accountability.

Summary

House Bill 3547 relates to the enforcement of fire safety standards by local governments at certain child-care facilities, specifically licensed group day-care homes and registered family homes. The bill allows municipalities and counties the authority to enforce state laws concerning fire safety standards in these establishments, thereby placing responsibility on local entities to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The legislation seeks to enhance child safety in care facilities through more rigorous local oversight of fire safety practices.

Contention

While the bill primarily aims to improve safety standards, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation and adequacy of local resources for enforcement. Critics could argue that not all municipalities have the necessary infrastructure or personnel to adequately monitor compliance with these standards. Additionally, there may be concerns about how this increased local authority interacts with existing state regulations and the potential for varying interpretations of the fire safety standards across different jurisdictions.