Relating to removing the requirement of provision of workers' compensation insurance coverage for Texas Task Force 1 members and members of intrastate fire mutual aid system teams and regional incident management teams.
Impact
The removal of the workers' compensation coverage requirement means that members of Texas Task Force 1 and similar teams may not have the same level of financial protection when injured during training or response operations. The bill intends to streamline processes for these first responders, but it raises concerns about their safety and well-being, potentially exposing them to greater risk without coverage. The implications of this law could affect the operational dynamics of disaster response frameworks in Texas, affecting how incidents are managed both preemptively and reactively.
Summary
Senate Bill 2990 aims to amend the Labor Code of Texas specifically concerning workers' compensation for members of Texas Task Force 1 and certain emergency response teams. The bill proposes to remove the requirement for providing workers' compensation insurance coverage for these individuals. This legislation reflects a shift toward adjusting the classification of these team members under state employment laws and could impact how risks and responsibilities are managed in emergency situations.
Contention
Discussions surrounding SB 2990 are likely to erupt due to the contentious nature of the proposed changes, particularly regarding the adequacy of support systems for emergency responders. Proponents may argue that the bill aligns with efforts to facilitate rapid deployment and operational efficiency in crisis scenarios. Conversely, critics might raise alarms about leaving members vulnerable without adequate insurance, which could deter participation or lead to increased hardship in the event of injury during their critical roles.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Labor Code
Chapter 408. Workers' Compensation Benefits
Section: 0445
Chapter 501. Workers' Compensation Insurance Coverage For State Employees, Including Employees Under The Direction Or Control Of The Board Of Regents Of Texas Tech University
Section: New Section
Education Code
Chapter 88. Agencies And Services Of The Texas A & M University System
Identical
Relating to the provision of workers' compensation insurance coverage for certain Texas Task Force 1 members and intrastate fire mutual aid system team and regional incident management team members, including the removal of coverage for nongovernment members.
Relating to the composition of the Sexual Assault Survivors' Task Force and to compensation for task force members and certain other task force participants.
Relating to the composition, continuation, and duties of the Sexual Assault Survivors' Task Force, compensation for task force members and certain other task force participants, and establishment of a mandatory training program for persons responding to reports of and treating survivors of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault.