TX HB3648

Applies only to counties with a population of 3.3 million or more that have not adopted Chapter 174 (Fire and Police Employee Relations Act), effectively targeting Harris County

Creates a "meet and confer" framework allowing sheriff's department employees to negotiate with the county on wages, benefits, hours, and working conditions through a recognized employee group, though pension matters are excluded from negotiations

Requires a department employee group to have at least 3% membership with dues via payroll deduction by September 1, 2025 to qualify; recognition requires a petition signed by a majority of employees or a certification election

Agreements become binding only after ratification by majority vote of the commissioners court and approval by at least 65% of department employees voting in a ratification election

Prohibits strikes by department employees, with participants forfeiting all civil service rights, reemployment rights, and employment benefits; allows voters to petition for an election to repeal any ratified agreement within 60 days