H.B. No. 5148 introduces new regulations regarding stairway requirements for certain multifamily residential buildings in Texas. The bill adds a new Subchapter I to Chapter 214 of the Local Government Code, defining "multifamily residential building" and outlining specific conditions under which municipalities cannot require more than one stairway. These conditions include limitations on the number of stories, dwelling units per floor, and various safety features such as automatic sprinklers, fire resistance ratings, and emergency escape openings. The bill explicitly prohibits municipalities from enforcing ordinances that contradict these stipulations, while still allowing them to adopt regulations for buildings that do not meet the outlined criteria.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not interfere with property owners' associations or private agreements regarding stairway requirements. It maintains that other municipal regulations, such as height limitations and zoning requirements, still apply to these multifamily residential buildings. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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