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Bill

HB 2563

Relating to establishment of the temporary certified and insured prescribed burn manager self-insurance pool; authorizing a fee.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Trent Ashby and 2 co-sponsors

Texas creates temporary self-insurance pool for prescribed burn managers, allowing liability risk-sharing through participant fees to boost wildfire prevention burning.

Effective on 9/1/25
#burning&incinerators(s0262) #firesafety&prevention(s0273) #firefighters&police--general(i0370) #insurance--property&casualty(i0442) #staffdevelopment&training(s0317) #statefinances--management&control(i0748) #texasa&mforestservice(u0213) #texasa&muniversitysystem(u0079)
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Bill Summary · HB 2563

Legislative bill overview

HB 2563 establishes a temporary self-insurance pool for certified and insured prescribed burn managers in Texas, allowing them to collectively manage liability risks rather than relying solely on traditional insurance. The bill authorizes the pool to charge fees to participants to cover administrative and claims costs. This mechanism aims to make prescribed burning more accessible and affordable for land managers engaged in wildfire prevention.

Why is this important

Prescribed burns are critical for reducing catastrophic wildfire risk, managing ecosystems, and protecting property and lives. However, liability insurance for burn managers has become expensive and difficult to obtain, creating a barrier to conducting these necessary burns. By enabling a self-insurance pool, the bill addresses a practical obstacle that has limited prescribed burn implementation across Texas.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability concerns: Self-insurance pools may have less financial stability than traditional insurers; if the pool becomes insolvent, burn managers and affected parties could face uncovered losses
  • Fee structure and fairness: The bill authorizes fees but doesn't specify how they'll be calculated, potentially creating disputes over cost distribution among participants
  • Regulatory oversight: As a temporary program, questions exist about whether state oversight mechanisms are sufficient to protect public interests and ensure the pool operates soundly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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