H.B. No. 245 amends the definition of "authorized emergency vehicle" in the Texas Transportation Code. The bill retains existing categories of emergency vehicles, such as fire department and police vehicles, ambulances, and emergency medical services vehicles, while introducing new provisions. Notably, it adds a new category for private vehicles of medical staff, including physicians or technicians from licensed medical facilities, when responding to medical emergencies in specific counties. These vehicles must be designated as authorized emergency vehicles by the respective county's commissioners court.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the private vehicles of employees or volunteers of county emergency management divisions in certain population brackets can also be designated as authorized emergency vehicles. The changes aim to enhance the response capabilities of medical personnel during emergencies. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 541.201 (Transportation Code 541)