SRC-SEW S.B. 469 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 469 77R4375 KSD-FBy: Gallegos Intergovernmental Relations 2/28/2001 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE In 1997, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published a report enumerating the minimum acceptable fire company staffing levels. Both the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSHA) and the District Chief's Technical Advisory Committee's (DCTAC) Subcommittee on Emergency Response Staffing Requirements have recommended that fire departments consider utilizing the NFPA standards for minimum staffing on fire trucks. Performance tests on the efficiency of fourperson fire company staffing, including one study highlighted in International Firefighter Magazine conducted in Austin, Texas, have shown a higher level of efficiency and a decrease in the number of injuries. As proposed, S.B. 469 calls for a minimum staffing of fire trucks. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 143G, Local Government Code, by adding Section 143.1055, as follows: Sec. 143.1055. MINIMUM STAFFING FOR FIRE APPARATUS. Requires each engine, rescue truck, hazardous material unit, or airport rescue unit placed in operation by a fire department during a shift to be staffed with at least two fire fighters, one engineer qualified to operate the unit, and one captain. Requires each ladder truck placed in operation by a fire department during a shift to be staffed with at least three fire fighters, one engineer qualified to operate the ladder truck, and one senior captain. SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2001.