House Bill No. 3171 aims to amend the Local Government Code regarding compensation and employment conditions for fire fighters and police officers employed by political subdivisions. The bill introduces new provisions that clarify the preemption of local laws by state law, ensuring that municipal charters or collective bargaining agreements can dictate compensation and employment conditions. Specifically, it establishes that political subdivisions must provide compensation and working conditions that are substantially equal to those in comparable private sector jobs, while also allowing for compliance through municipal charters or existing collective bargaining agreements.

Additionally, the bill modifies the impasse resolution process in collective bargaining, allowing for alternative mechanisms as specified in municipal charters or collective agreements. It emphasizes that if a public employer and a bargaining agent reach an impasse, they must follow the resolution procedures outlined in their charter or agreement, which may differ from the standard arbitration process. The changes are designed to enhance the negotiation framework for public safety employees while ensuring that local governance structures are respected. The bill will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 174.005, Local Government Code 174.021, Local Government Code 174.153, Local Government Code 174.1535, Local Government Code 174.156, Local Government Code 174.158, Local Government Code 174.163 (Local Government Code 174)