Bill > HB2009

This bill requires fire departments in Texas to offer annual occupational medical examinations to certified fire fighters at no cost, with the goal of monitoring their health and detecting potential job-related medical issues. The comprehensive examination must include a blood test, urine test, pulmonary function test, electrocardiogram, infectious disease screening, cancer screening, and a chest x-ray (which can be done once every five years). The Texas Commission on Fire Protection will establish minimum standards for these examinations using guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association. Fire departments can alternatively submit an annual medical examination plan to the commission by February 1st of each year, which must be endorsed by a physician and substantially comply with the association's standards. The bill defines a "fire fighter" as a certified individual who meets specific government code definitions. The implementation of these requirements is phased, with the commission having until January 1, 2027, to adopt implementing rules, and fire departments not being required to comply until February 1, 2027. The bill takes effect either immediately with a two-thirds legislative vote or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2009