H.B. No. 287 aims to enhance the authority of the governor regarding the procurement of interoperable communications systems by political subdivisions in Texas. The bill amends the heading of Subchapter F, Chapter 421 of the Government Code to reflect the new focus on "Governor Powers and Responsibilities Related to Interoperable Communications." It also updates Section 421.096 to include the implementation of procurement standards and procedures, as well as the establishment of a new Section 421.0965, which mandates that political subdivisions must submit proposed acquisitions of public safety radio communications systems to the governor's office for an interoperability review before committing funds or entering contracts.

The new Section 421.0965 outlines the review process, requiring the governor's office to assess whether the proposed procurement aligns with interoperability recommendations, does not impair regional communications, and meets necessary technical standards. The governor must issue a determination within 90 days, which can result in approval, denial, or temporary suspension of the procurement. If a proposal is found to materially impair interoperability, the governor can prohibit the political subdivision from proceeding. The bill also requires the governor to adopt rules for implementing these procedures by August 1, 2026, and specifies that the act applies only to procurements initiated after its effective date.

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