TX HB3977

Creates Chapter 174A in the Local Government Code establishing a framework for firefighters employed by political subdivisions (excluding municipalities and those already under Chapter 174 collective bargaining) to form employment agreements with their employers

Allows firefighters associations to petition for recognition as the sole and exclusive bargaining agent if a majority of covered firefighters sign the petition; governing body must vote within 30 days on whether to grant recognition and authorize employment agreement development

Prohibits firefighters from engaging in strikes or organized work stoppages, with violators forfeiting civil service rights, reemployment rights, and other employment-related benefits and privileges

Requires employment agreements to be ratified by both a majority vote of the political subdivision's governing body and a secret ballot election of association members; ratified agreements preempt conflicting local ordinances, civil service provisions, and certain state statutes

Permits emergency services districts to terminate agreements if they experience a 7% or greater revenue loss compared to the previous fiscal year due to territory removal or loss of sales tax authority that cannot be offset by property tax increases