Texas House Bill HB2660

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/11/25

Caption

Relating to the requirement to obtain certification and continuing education for certain public information officers.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2660 will amend Chapter 418 of the Texas Government Code to include new subchapters specifically focused on the certification and education of public information officers. Entities such as municipal police departments and independent school districts will be required to appoint certified individuals who have received training on emergency communications principles. This legislative change is likely to improve the quality of information provided to the public during emergencies, thereby fostering greater trust and transparency between government institutions and the communities they serve.

Summary

House Bill 2660 introduces requirements for public information officers across various governmental entities, including municipalities, counties, and school districts. It mandates that these officers obtain certification in emergency communications and complete ongoing education to maintain their qualifications. This move is aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of communication during disasters and ensuring that individuals responsible for disseminating public information are adequately trained. The bill recognizes the critical role that public information officers play in crisis management and seeks to standardize training across the state.

Conclusion

HB 2660 aims to bolster the preparedness and competency of public information officers within Texas's governmental framework. By establishing a standardized certification process, the bill is poised to enhance communication during critical events, ultimately aiming to protect and inform the public effectively. However, the practical implications of enforcing these requirements, including resource allocation and budgetary constraints for local governments, remain points of consideration as the bill moves forward.

Contention

While the intent behind HB 2660 is to improve emergency communication protocols, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the training and certification process. Some stakeholders might argue that the legislation could impose additional burdens on local entities that must allocate resources for training and compliance. There is potential for debate on the cost-effectiveness of mandatory certification and whether it may inadvertently limit the pool of qualified candidates for public information officer roles.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 418. Emergency Management
  • Section: New Section