TITLE: Relating to waivers permitting non-certified drivers to operate in partnership with state-certified emergency medical personnel.

SUMMARY: Relating to waivers permitting non-certified drivers to operate in partnership with state-certified emergency medical personnel.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to waivers permitting non-certified drivers to operate in partnership with state-certified emergency medical personnel. SECTION 1. Chapter 773, Health and Safety Code, is amended by adding the following section: SECTION 773.055 EXTENSION OF NON-CERTIFIED DRIVING WAIVERS: (a) Any existing state waivers or emergency orders that allow non-certified individuals to serve as drivers for emergency medical services operations in partnership with state-certified emergency medical technicians and paramedics shall continue without requirements of variance requests after initial approval. (b) Any state waivers or emergency orders that allow non-certified individuals to serve as drivers for emergency medical services operations in partnership with state-certified emergency medical technicians and paramedics approved after the effective date of this Act shall continue without requirements of variance requests. (c) The Texas Department of State Health Services may issue rules to comply with this Act to ensure that providers understand updated requirements with the certification. SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE: This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.