Relating to the creation and operation of the Texas Interoperability Council and a grant program administered by the council.

HB 261 creates the Texas Interoperability Council to develop a statewide plan ensuring emergency communication systems across agencies can work together during crises. The Council will administer grants to local governments (including cities, counties, and special districts) for purchasing compatible communication equipment and building infrastructure that enables first responders to communicate effectively. This bill directly provides a new funding mechanism for local governments to upgrade emergency communication capabilities without requiring new state funding.