H.B. No. 149 introduces a new requirement for political subdivisions in Texas regarding the purchase of public safety radio communication systems. The bill adds Section 271.909 to the Local Government Code, mandating that any proposed purchase of such systems must receive approval from the governor. The bill defines a "public safety radio communication system" as encompassing various components necessary for governmental entities involved in public safety operations, including law enforcement and emergency services. The governor is tasked with establishing standards to assess whether a proposed purchase would impair interoperability with existing systems used by other governmental entities in the region.

The bill outlines the process for political subdivisions to request a review of their proposed purchases, stipulating that the governor must respond within 90 days. The governor can either approve the request, deny it, or conditionally deny it while providing feedback on deficiencies and corrective measures. Additionally, the governor is required to create rules for appealing a denial. The provisions of this bill will take effect on August 1, 2026, and the governor must adopt the necessary rules by that date.

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