TX HB4065

Requires binding interest arbitration for firefighters and police officers when collective bargaining reaches an impasse or when a governing body fails to approve a negotiated contract within 61 days

Exempts political subdivisions that already adopted binding arbitration or impasse resolution mechanisms before January 1, 2025, and municipalities with populations of 1.9 million or more (unless voters approve adoption)

Establishes arbitrator selection process through the American Arbitration Association or Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, with parties alternately striking names from a list of seven candidates if they cannot agree

Mandates hearings begin within 10 days of arbitrator selection and conclude within 20 days, with written findings and awards issued within 10 days after hearing completion

Makes arbitration awards final and binding if supported by substantial evidence, enforceable in district court, with costs split equally between the public employer and employee association