The bill, H.B. No. 3626, aims to enhance the role and recognition of coroners within the state of Texas by amending various sections of the Government Code. Notably, it expands the membership of the First Responder Advisory Council to include coroners, represented by a justice of the peace or medical examiner, alongside existing members from law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medical services. Additionally, the bill introduces the "Coroners' Star of Texas Award," which will be awarded to coroners who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty, with an advisory committee established to oversee the award's issuance and design.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of "coroner" to include justices of the peace or medical examiners conducting inquests, as well as death investigators assisting them. It also expands the eligibility for certain state benefits to include coroners and their survivors, ensuring they receive recognition and support similar to other first responders. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to deaths occurring on or after that date, maintaining the previous law for earlier incidents.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 421.041, Government Code 615.003, Government Code 3106.001 (Government Code 615, Government Code 421, Government Code 3106)