Texas Senate Bill SB1473

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to emergency services districts.

Impact

The bill impacts the Health and Safety Code by adding Section 775.0234, which specifically outlines the conditions under which a municipality can request territory removal from an emergency services district. By requiring municipalities to secure alternative emergency service providers before territory removal, the bill ensures that emergency services remain available even after administrative changes. This measure intends to enhance local governance while maintaining the integrity of emergency services within the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 1473 addresses the governance of emergency services districts in Texas by introducing a provision for municipalities to request the removal of territory from these districts. According to the bill, a municipality can only request such removal if it has secured an alternative emergency service provider to cover the designated area within its extraterritorial jurisdiction. This change aims to streamline the process for municipalities seeking to manage or alter the areas included in emergency service districts.

Contention

While the bill appears to give municipalities more control over their emergency services arrangements, it also raises concerns regarding the implications for the emergency services districts themselves. Critics may argue that this law could weaken these districts by allowing municipalities to fragment service areas without considering the overall service quality or financial implications for the districts losing territory. The necessity of securing alternative service providers before territory removal could also create hurdles for municipalities striving for effective management of their emergency services.