Bill > HB1199

This bill requires nursing facilities and assisted living facilities in Texas to be equipped with operational emergency generators or comparable power sources capable of running for at least 72 hours during a power outage. The generators must provide power to areas large enough to safely maintain residents, and for facilities with unit locking devices that restrict resident movement, a separate powered area must also be provided. Facilities can use any type of fuel for their generators, including natural gas. Facilities must comply with these requirements by September 1, 2026, and may request up to two one-year extensions from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission if needed. The bill also mandates that the commission conduct annual inspections of these emergency power sources, with the executive commissioner required to develop a specific inspection checklist. The goal of the bill is to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in nursing and assisted living facilities during extended power outages by guaranteeing continuous power for essential needs. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, otherwise it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1199