House Bill No. 2437, introduced by Rosenthal, amends the Health and Safety Code by adding Section 775.079, which outlines the procedures for the adoption and amendment of annual budgets by certain emergency services districts located in counties with populations exceeding three million. The bill mandates that the board of the district prepare and adopt the budget in a specified manner, including holding an open meeting to consider the proposed budget and allowing for its adoption at the same meeting where the tax rate is set, provided they comply with existing regulations. Additionally, the proposed budget must be posted on the district's website at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

The bill also establishes guidelines for amending the budget after its initial adoption. Amendments can only be made during an open meeting, with the proposed changes posted online beforehand. The board must include specific statements in the meeting notice to encourage public participation and must allow for public comments before any amendments can be approved. A minimum of three board members must vote in favor of the amendment for it to be adopted. This legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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