The bill, S.B. No. 2510, establishes a temporary self-insurance pool for prescribed burn managers in Texas, aimed at providing general liability coverage for prescribed burns conducted by certified and insured managers. The Texas A&M Forest Service will administer this self-insurance program, which includes identifying risks, maintaining loss-prevention programs, and providing coverage in accordance with specific guidelines. The program will be funded through a newly created self-insurance fund, which will consist of appropriated funds, collected fees, and accrued interest. The bill also outlines eligibility requirements for participation, training requirements for managers, and the establishment of a fee structure to support the program.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for data collection on prescribed burns, limitations on the state's liability, and the potential termination of a manager's participation in the program if excessive claims are made. Legal representation for managers in liability actions is also addressed, with the stipulation that the Attorney General will not provide these services. The program and the chapter will expire on September 1, 2040, with any remaining funds being transferred to the statewide fire contingency account. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()