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Bill

HB 185

Relating to first responder broadband network services used by first responders during natural disasters and other emergencies.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Barbara Gervin-Hawkins

Texas bill creates dedicated broadband infrastructure for first responders during disasters to ensure emergency communications when public networks fail or become congested.

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#broadbandnetworks(s0643) #disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #health--emergencyservices&personnel(i0384) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #safety(i0740) #utilities--telecommunications(i0828)
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Bill Summary · HB 185

Legislative bill overview

HB 185 establishes provisions for broadband network services specifically designed for first responders to use during natural disasters and other emergencies in Texas. The bill creates a framework for developing, deploying, and maintaining dedicated broadband infrastructure that prioritizes emergency communications when standard networks may be overwhelmed or damaged.

Why is this important

During major disasters, cellular networks and internet infrastructure often become congested or fail, severely hampering emergency response coordination. A dedicated first responder broadband network could enable faster emergency communications, better inter-agency coordination, and potentially save lives by ensuring responders can access critical information and communicate when public networks are unavailable.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: Who pays for building and maintaining this dedicated infrastructure—state budget, federal grants, public-private partnerships, or utility ratepayers—remains a key question
  • Interoperability standards: Ensuring the system works seamlessly with existing first responder communications (radio systems, 911 centers) across different jurisdictions and agencies
  • Coverage gaps: Whether the network will adequately serve rural and underserved areas where broadband infrastructure is already limited, or primarily benefit urban/suburban regions

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

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