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Photo by Sheri Hemrick

Welcome to the

State Association of Fire and Emergency Districts

SAFE-D is the only organization dedicated to helping the men and women of Texas Emergency Services Districts
provide fire protection and emergency medical services to more than 10 million Texans.

Sign Up for SAFE-D Legislative Updates

Sign up for SAFE-D legislative updates by filing out this quick form to join the email list.
Go HERE for the official SAFE-D Legislative Platform for the 89th Session.

Federal Legislation Update - H.R.2766 introduced in the U.S. House

Federal law currently lacks a clear definition of “special district,” creating unnecessary barriers to federal resources, emergency funding, and essential grants. Since 2020, the National Special Districts Association (NSDA) has led efforts to establish a federal definition. This work has resulted in proposed legislation to amend U.S. Code Title 13, ensuring that special districts are formally recognized and equitably included in federal programs.

Special thanks to Texas' own Congressman Pat Fallon for introducing H.R. 2766 - the Special District fairness and Accessibility Act

This legislation aims to:

  1. Establish a first-ever, formal definition of “special district” in federal law
  2. Direct OMB to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations. Federal agencies would have one year to implement OMB’s guidance.

A formal definition of “special district” would foster consistency and enhance special districts’ access to a number of federal programs. Moreover, having a formal definition of special district codified in law would help facilitate the inclusion of special districts in future legislative proposals on Capitol Hill.

More information on the bill can be can be found HERE.

Special Legislative Panel Calls for More Money for VFDs

The special House Committee investigating the massive Panhandle wildfire this year has issued its report, calling for more 2604 funds and better coordination between local firefighters and state assets.
Read the report in SAFE-D's Member Center. Log in under the Member Tab above.

Report: ESDs do more than municipalities for less taxpayer money

In a September 2022 report, noted economist Dr. Ray Perryman finds that ESDs provide emergency services for dramatically less than municipalities -- at one-third to one-half the costs.

Read the report here!

FAQs About ESDs

Learn more about ESDs - grassroots governments that provide fire protection or emergency medical services at a fraction of the costs of municipal fire departments.

Learn More

Want to know about ESDs?

If you have questions about Texas ESDs or would like some general information, let SAFE-D know!

Click here.

File Your 2025 State-Required ESD Report

State law (Texas Health and Safety Code Sec. 775.083) requires Emergency Services Districts to file a report with the Texas Division of Emergency Management by January 1 of each year.

Through an agreement with TDEM, you can file your ESD's January 1, 2025 report through SAFE-D.

USE THIS LINK TO FILE YOUR ESD's 2025 REPORT

For a link to the currently filed 2025 reports, go here: www.safe-d.org/esdreports25.

ESD Tax Rate Setting Hub

SAFE-D has created a page with resources for ESDs looking for guidance in setting their Ad Valorem Tax Rate. Go HERE to find a recording of the recent ESD Tax Rate Process webcast, links to Comptroller forms, rate setting timelines, and more.

As always, be sure to check with your own counsel should you have the need for legal advice

ESD Websites

Senate Bill 2, passed in 2019, requires Texas ESDs to maintain websites and specifies information that must be available to the public. Here's a link to statutory requirements for local government websites, including ESDs.

Here is a link to Texas ESD websites.

To have your ESD's website added to this list, email admin@safe-d.org.

SAFE-D Video: How to Create an ESD

More areas across Texas are considering creating an emergency services district to provide reliable funding for fire protection or emergency medical services.

SAFE-D has created a short, free video with steps required to create an ESD.

SAFE-D encourages residents who are considering an ESD to consult with an attorney experienced in local government matters to assist in the process.

We welcome your questions at admin@safe-d.org

SB8 EMS Personnel Scholarships

The Texas Legislature has set aside funds to educate and train EMS personnel. Scholarships are available based on documented need, with special attention given to rural and underserved areas within the state. Courses can be in-person, online, or hybrid.

Go HERE to find out more

2025 VFIS Firefighter & EMS Responder of the Year Awards

Do you know a firefighter or EMS professional who goes above and beyond to serve their community?

VFIS of Texas and the State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas (SFFMA) are proud to present the 2025 Firefighter & EMS Responder of the Year Awards, honoring the heroes who make a difference every day.

🏆 Award Highlights:

💰 Winners receive $3,000 in cash!
💰 Runners-up receive monetary awards for their exceptional service

Deadline to nominate: May 26, 2025
Submit online here!

Thanks for Attending SAFE-D's 2025 Annual Conference

SAFE-D's 24th Annual Conference will be held at the Henry B. Gonzáles Convention Center in San Antonio, January 29-31, 2026.

We hope to see you there!

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NEW: Winter 24-25 Newsletter Available

An electronic version of the SAFE-D Members-Only Newsletter for Winter 2024-25 (above) is available in the Member Center.

Want to advertise in the SAFE-D Pen?

The SAFE-D Pen is the official newsletter of the State Association of Fire and Emergency Districts and is mailed out to members.

Click here for more information.

Video Library

Access recordings of SAFE-D webcasts by clicking to https://www.safe-d.org/video-library/.

Coming Soon: This content will only be available to members through the soon-to-be-released Member Center.

Thanks to these generous sponsors of SAFE-D's 2025 Annual Conference

Diamond Sponsor