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Bill

HB 5275

Relating to measures to ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities during an emergency situation at public postsecondary institutions.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mary González

Requires Texas public colleges to develop emergency safety protocols and training ensuring students and staff with disabilities can safely evacuate and receive assistance during emergencies.

Referred to Higher Education
#disabilities #personswith(i0380) #disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #education--higher--institutions&programs(i0223) #highereducationcoordinatingboard #texas(v4280) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · HB 5275

Legislative bill overview

HB 5275 requires Texas public postsecondary institutions to develop and implement emergency safety plans specifically addressing the needs of students and staff with disabilities. The bill mandates that these institutions establish protocols, training programs, and accessible communication systems to ensure individuals with disabilities can safely evacuate, shelter, and receive assistance during emergencies such as natural disasters, fires, or active threats.

Why is this important

People with disabilities face disproportionate risks during emergencies due to barriers in accessibility, communication, and mobility assistance. Without specific institutional requirements, institutions may lack coordinated systems to account for and assist disabled individuals, potentially leaving them stranded or uninformed during critical situations. This bill addresses a documented gap in emergency preparedness that directly affects student and employee safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Institutions may argue compliance requires significant investment in training, accessible equipment, and personnel dedicated to disability emergency services
  • Scope and specificity: Questions about whether the bill provides sufficient detail on what constitutes adequate safety planning, or if it's too vague for consistent institutional compliance
  • Liability considerations: Institutions may worry about legal exposure if emergencies occur despite implemented plans, or disagreements over responsibility allocation between institutions and emergency responders

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

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