H.B. No. 3 establishes the Texas Interoperability Council, which is responsible for creating a statewide strategic plan to enhance the interoperability of emergency communication systems and infrastructure. The council will administer a grant program to assist local governments in acquiring necessary equipment and constructing infrastructure, consisting of the chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management and six governor-appointed members from various emergency response agencies. The council is required to meet regularly and can conduct closed meetings for sensitive discussions. The bill also outlines the grant program's structure, including eligibility criteria, covered expenses, and training requirements for grant recipients, while allowing the council to accept donations and maintain confidentiality for grant applications.

Additionally, the bill amends the Local Government Code to introduce new requirements for political subdivisions purchasing public safety radio communication systems, mandating approval from the governor until January 1, 2027. The governor will set standards to ensure interoperability and outline the review process for proposed purchases. After this date, the Texas Interoperability Council will take over the approval process and establish its own standards. The bill requires the governor to appoint council members and create a memorandum of understanding to transfer relevant powers from the governor's office to the council. The act will take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on the 91st day after the legislative session if that vote is not achieved.

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