Texas House Bill HB2

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

• Filed: 8/15/25

Caption

Relating to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, including required training for justices of the peace and responding to mass fatality events; requiring a license; authorizing fees.

Impact

The enactment of HB2 will significantly impact existing state laws related to emergency management and mass fatality responses. It formalizes the creation of a mass fatality operations rapid response team that will operate in conjunction with relevant governmental entities. This team will be responsible for coordinating recovery efforts following a mass fatality event, thereby streamlining response processes and ensuring a comprehensive approach to disaster management. The bill necessitates collaboration among various emergency services, enhancing the overall efficiency of disaster response efforts across Texas.

Summary

House Bill 2 (HB2) centers on enhancing disaster preparedness, response, and recovery within the state. A core component of the bill is the establishment of a training program specifically designed for justices of the peace who operate in counties without medical examiner services. This training is mandated to cover crucial topics such as decision-making protocols for autopsies, body identification standards, and coordination between governmental agencies during mass fatality events. Additionally, the bill outlines licensing requirements for emergency managers, ensuring they possess adequate training and are subject to criminal background checks to maintain public safety.

Contention

Notable contention surrounding HB2 may arise from the licensing and training provisions that establish strict eligibility criteria for emergency managers. Critics may argue that the mandatory criminal history checks could limit the pool of qualified candidates for emergency management positions, potentially impacting disaster response effectiveness. Furthermore, the bill places significant emphasis on the role of justices of the peace in managing mass fatalities, which may garner scrutiny regarding the adequacy of training and resources allocated to these officials. This highlights a potential debate on balancing rigorous standards with practical accessibility to necessary training and licensure.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 27. Justice Courts
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
  • Section: 1236
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 418. Emergency Management
  • Section: New Section