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.