Cheap Chinese radios hampered Search and Rescue efforts in flood

[Project25_MASTR]

Please, please dont get started on IT idiots put in charge of radio communications.

You know, I put out a survey on several more pulbic safety comms related forums…it was very interesting seeing just how many were successfully operating as part of municipal IT departments (though all dedicated members within a dedicated department a part of a larger IT department). I was actually surpised I got answer back from outside of the US…the number one issue is that the overwhelming majority feels they are understaffed. Several in this thread even submitted to it…

 

[WB5UOM]

Thats like asking a crook if he is honest.

 

[KE5PL]

HB13 passed the House today by an overwhelming majority.

https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB13/id/3265112

Here is a ChstGPT summary of the Texas Interoperable Emergency Communications Act:

Texas Interoperable Emergency Communications Act – Summary

Purpose

• Improve interoperability among emergency communication systems in Texas.
• Establish the Texas Interoperability Council (TIC).
• Create a grant program for local governments to obtain interoperable emergency communication equipment.

Texas Interoperability Council (TIC)

• Membership: 7 members (6 appointed by the governor, 1 from Texas Division of Emergency Management).
• Duties:
  • Develop and implement a statewide strategic plan for interoperable communications.
  • Administer grants to local governments for equipment and infrastructure.
  • Coordinate training, infrastructure, and technology for emergency communications.

Strategic Plan Must Include

• Statewide communication infrastructure for first responders.
• Training programs for state and local agencies.
• A plan for interoperable equipment and integration with existing systems.
• Optional: Emergency alert systems, outdoor sirens, and broadband usage.

Grant Program

• Eligibility: Local governments that submit proposals under council rules.
• Uses:
  • Purchase of interoperable radios and infrastructure.
  • Upgrades and integration of current systems.
  • Training and maintenance.

Approval Required for Radio System Purchases

• Before Jan 1, 2027: Governor must approve purchases that may impact interoperability.
• After Jan 1, 2027: TIC assumes that approval role.
• Standards: Minimum technical specifications and region-wide interoperability compliance.
• Denials: Must include reasons and corrective guidance. Appeals process required.

Timeline

• Jan 1, 2026: Governor begins review of local radio system purchases.
• Jan 1, 2027: TIC takes over approval responsibilities.
• By Dec 1, 2026: Governor and TIC must complete transfer of authority via MOU.
• Staggered terms for council members through 2031.

Other Provisions

• TIC may:
  • Meet in closed session for sensitive security and grant matters.
  • Accept donations and grants.
  • Collaborate with agencies and private entities.

 

[Russell]

 

[nd5y]

Texas Interoperable Emergency Communications Act – Summary

Purpose

• Improve interoperability among emergency communication systems in Texas.
• Establish the Texas Interoperability Council (TIC).
• Create a grant program for local governments to obtain interoperable emergency communication equipment.

Why do we need that when we already have this for the past 20 years?

Texas Interoperable Communications Coalition | Department of Public Safety

www.dps.texas.gov

 

[mmckenna]

View attachment 188867

I worked with a guy that once said:

"The nice thing about standards is that there are so many to choose from."​

​

And he was correct.

 

[mostinterestingman]

Why do we need that when we already have this for the past 20 years?

Texas Interoperable Communications Coalition | Department of Public Safety

www.dps.texas.gov

Because there has never been the statutory authority for the TXICC to say "You_are_not going to add yet another system ID in Texas, Quit being part of the problem". Webb Co, Van Zandt Co, are the latest examples of entities that should have been told NO by the grown ups in the room.

The TICC is a good place for for collaboration and guidance, but has no executive authority to keep an agency from being obstructive isolationists. The carrot usually works, but it's time for the state to bring out the stick.

 

[WB5UOM]

Yup, it will be another Circus
Good intentions, but by folk who have not a clue, only hear what someone with their agenda tells them.
Not much different than back in what 2005, when any radio was purchased with grant funds it had to be P25 Capable