H.B. No. 2063 proposes the establishment of a comprehensive database managed by the Texas Forest Service that will track the inventory of firefighting equipment available across the state for wildfire response. The bill defines a "fire department" to include both volunteer fire departments and municipal, county, or special district departments that provide firefighting services. The database will include detailed descriptions of the equipment available, contact information for the respective fire departments, and will be searchable by location and equipment type. Additionally, it will allow fire departments to update their equipment information, ensuring that the database remains current and accessible.

To facilitate the maintenance of this database, the Texas Forest Service is tasked with assisting fire departments in updating their equipment information annually or as changes occur. The agency will implement an electronic notification system to remind fire departments to update their equipment availability at least once a year. This initiative aims to enhance coordination and efficiency in wildfire response efforts across Texas. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 418.004 (Government Code 418)
House Committee Report: (Government Code 418)