HB5505 - Relating to requirements for backup electric generator connections for new multiunit complexes in certain municipalities; providing civil penalties.

  89R15999 CS-D     By: Morales of Harris H.B. No. 5505       A BILL TO BE ENTITLED   AN ACT   relating to requirements for backup electric generator connections   for new multiunit complexes in certain municipalities; providing   civil penalties.          BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:          SECTION 1.  Subchapter G, Chapter 214, Local Government   Code, is amended by adding Section 214.222 to read as follows:           Sec.   214.222.     BACKUP ELECTRIC GENERATOR CONNECTIONS FOR   MULTIUNIT COMPLEXES IN CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES. (a)   In this   section, "multiunit complex" has the meaning assigned by Section   92.151, Property Code.             (b)     This section applies only to a municipality with a   population of two million or more.           (c)     The governing body of a municipality by ordinance shall   incorporate into its municipal building code a requirement that the   construction of a new multiunit complex be compatible with the   connection of a backup electric generator. The connection must:                 (1)     allow for a generator to be connected to the main   electrical panel of the complex by a manual or automatic transfer   switch;                 (2)     be compatible with a generator that is capable of   operating essential services for the complex for a minimum of 96   hours;                 (3)     include a statement close to the connection of the   connection's voltage, capacity, and compatible plugs; and                 (4)     comply with applicable electrical and fire safety   standards.           (d)     An ordinance adopted under this section must require the   inspection of a multiunit complex to ensure compliance with the   building code provisions adopted under this section.           (e)     A person who violates an ordinance adopted under this   section is liable to the municipality for a civil penalty in an   amount not to exceed $50,000.           (f)     A person assessed a civil penalty under Subsection (e)   must make any repairs and improvements necessary to bring the   property into compliance not later than the first anniversary of   the date the civil penalty is assessed. A person who violates this   subsection is liable for another civil penalty under Subsection (e)   for each year the person violates this subsection.           (g)     A municipality may grant an exception to an ordinance   adopted under this section for a new multiunit complex that has a   technical limitation that prevents compliance with this section.          SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.