HB 4510 — Relating to first responder broadband network services used by first responders.

Summary

Relating to first responder broadband network services used by first responders.

Bill Text

AI-generated reading aid from the bill's amendatory text — verify against the official bill.

This bill amends the Texas statutes.

• SUBCHAPTER N-1. FIRST RESPONDER BROADBAND NETWORK SERVICE Sec. 411.411. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter: (1) "First responder" has the meaning assigned by Section 161.0001, Health and Safety Code. (2) "First responder broadband network service" means a dedicated wireless broadband communications network specifically designed for use by first responders. Sec. 411.412. SELECTION OF SERVICE PROVIDER FOR DEPARTMENT FIRST RESPONDERS. (a) The department shall select and procure from a provider a first responder broadband network service for use by first responders who are department employees. The first responder broadband network service selected by the department for department employees must have service availability in all areas of the state. (b) In the event that a department employee is terminated by or otherwise separates from employment with the department, the department shall inform the first responder broadband network service provider of that fact and require the provider to cancel that employee's access to the service. Sec. 411.413. ASSISTANCE TO OTHER FIRST RESPONDERS. (a) The department may assist first responders who are not department employees to select and secure a first responder broadband network service or to renew a first responder broadband network service previously secured by the first responders. (b) For purposes of Subsection (a), the department shall maintain a database that lists the first responder broadband network service providers in this state. The database must include information that demonstrates the service area of each provider, as well as the average broadband network service availability of the system offered by the provider at each location within the provider's service area. Sec. 411.414. ANNUAL REPORT. Not later than December 1 of each year, the department shall prepare and submit to the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and each other member of the legislature an annual report that includes: (1) an evaluation of the effectiveness of first responder broadband network services, the total cost of these services to the state, and the current method of paying those costs; (2) data on the outcomes, including failures and successes, of first responder broadband network services during natural disasters, mass shootings, bombings, and other circumstances that require use of the first responder broadband network services; (3) data on use of first responder broadband network services, including the name of the provider of the service and the number of first responders using the service offered by each provider; and (4) recommendations for improving emergency and first responder communication operability and interoperability and enhancing resource capabilities.

  amended

Action History

1. April 03, 2025

   Referred to s/c on Telecommunications & Broadband by Speaker

2. April 03, 2025

   Read first time

3. March 12, 2025

   Filed

Sponsors

• Barbara Gervin-Hawkins · Primary

Subjects