The bill, introduced by Senator Miles as S.B. No. 1138, aims to establish specific policies for first responders addressing emergencies at group homes located in certain municipalities and counties in Texas. It amends Chapter 370 of the Local Government Code by adding Section 370.010, which defines a "group home" according to the Health and Safety Code and specifies that the new policies apply only to municipalities and counties with populations exceeding 300,000.
Under the new section, municipal and county law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and emergency medical service providers are required to develop response policies for emergencies at group homes, regardless of whether these homes are licensed. The bill emphasizes the need for these agencies to create procedures that ensure efficient emergency responses, taking into account the unique nature of group homes. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
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