New Laws will Help Struggling TX Volunteer Fire Departments

    June 3, 2025
    One establishes a statewide database of resources while another tackles funding woes faced by fire departments across Texas.

    Measures in Texas aim to help volunteer firefighters who are struggling to respond to emergencies.

    One that establishes a database that crews can access if they need assistance during wildfire emergencies will go into effect Sept. 1.

    Another, that is awaiting the governor's signature will help departments that are struggling financially, WOAI reported. 

    "We have a 1,000-home neighborhood that's being built off of FM 1044 just south of New Braunfels, that neighborhood is surrounded by pastures. So any grass fire, depending on where it starts, in the wind direction, you know, can threaten 100 homes at one time," Lake Dunlap Fire Chief Tyler Townsend said. 

    About the Author

    Susan Nicol | News Editor

    Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues. 

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