House Bill No. 5275 aims to enhance the safety of individuals with disabilities during emergencies at public postsecondary institutions in Texas. The bill amends Section 51.217 of the Education Code to require institutions to adopt a multihazard emergency operations plan that includes provisions for employee training, mandatory drills, and coordination with emergency services. Notably, it introduces new requirements for ensuring that students, personnel, and guests with disabilities have equal access to safety during emergencies, including the development of an emergency plan that accommodates various disabilities and provides access to emergency evacuation assistance devices.

Additionally, the bill establishes Section 51.222, mandating that institutions with multi-story buildings install emergency evacuation assistance devices on each floor for individuals requiring mobility assistance. It also creates a grant program under Sections 61.06643 and 61.06644 to support institutions in purchasing and installing these devices and training personnel to operate them. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with adopting rules for these provisions and ensuring that the necessary measures are in place by the 2026-2027 academic year. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.217 (Education Code 51)