89R15999 CS-D
By: Morales of Harris H.B. No. 5505
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to requirements for backup electric generator connections
for new multiunit complexes in certain municipalities; providing
civil penalties.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter G, Chapter 214, Local Government
Code, is amended by adding Section 214.222 to read as follows:
Sec. 214.222. BACKUP ELECTRIC GENERATOR CONNECTIONS FOR
MULTIUNIT COMPLEXES IN CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES. (a) In this
section, "multiunit complex" has the meaning assigned by Section
92.151, Property Code.
(b) This section applies only to a municipality with a
population of two million or more.
(c) The governing body of a municipality by ordinance shall
incorporate into its municipal building code a requirement that the
construction of a new multiunit complex be compatible with the
connection of a backup electric generator. The connection must:
(1) allow for a generator to be connected to the main
electrical panel of the complex by a manual or automatic transfer
switch;
(2) be compatible with a generator that is capable of
operating essential services for the complex for a minimum of 96
hours;
(3) include a statement close to the connection of the
connection's voltage, capacity, and compatible plugs; and
(4) comply with applicable electrical and fire safety
standards.
(d) An ordinance adopted under this section must require the
inspection of a multiunit complex to ensure compliance with the
building code provisions adopted under this section.
(e) A person who violates an ordinance adopted under this
section is liable to the municipality for a civil penalty in an
amount not to exceed $50,000.
(f) A person assessed a civil penalty under Subsection (e)
must make any repairs and improvements necessary to bring the
property into compliance not later than the first anniversary of
the date the civil penalty is assessed. A person who violates this
subsection is liable for another civil penalty under Subsection (e)
for each year the person violates this subsection.
(g) A municipality may grant an exception to an ordinance
adopted under this section for a new multiunit complex that has a
technical limitation that prevents compliance with this section.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.