TX HB1985

Removes the maximum age limit of 36 years for taking entrance examinations for beginning positions in municipal fire departments, leaving only the minimum age requirement of 18 years

Raises the maximum age for certification eligibility for beginning fire department positions from 36 years to 45 years

Updates emergency recruitment provisions to allow temporary employment of firefighters aged 45 or older (previously 36 or older) when municipalities cannot recruit qualified candidates due to age restrictions

Consolidates entrance examination age requirements for police and fire departments under a single provision requiring applicants be at least 18 years old

Takes effect immediately upon two-thirds vote of both legislative chambers, otherwise becomes effective September 1, 2025