Sec. 142.1565.  ELECTION TO AUTHORIZE OPERATING UNDER THIS SUBCHAPTER.  (a)  If the governing body of a municipality does not recognize an association that submits a petition under Section 142.155 and that has been determined by the governing body or under Section 142.156 to represent a majority of the covered emergency medical services personnel, the governing body shall order an election to determine whether a public employer may meet and confer under this subchapter.
(b)  An election ordered under this section must be held as part of the next regularly scheduled general election for municipal officers that occurs after the date the governing body of the municipality orders the election and that allows sufficient time to prepare the ballot in compliance with other requirements of law.
(c)  The ballot for an election ordered under this section shall be printed to allow voting for or against the proposition:  "Authorizing __________ (name of the municipality) to operate under the state law allowing a municipality to meet and confer and make agreements with the association representing municipal emergency medical services personnel as provided by state law, preserving the prohibition against strikes and organized work stoppages, and providing penalties for strikes and organized work stoppages."
(d)  An election ordered under this section must be held and the returns prepared and canvassed in conformity with the Election Code.
(e)  If an election under this section is held, the municipality may operate under the other provisions of this subchapter only if a majority of the votes cast at the election favor the proposition.
(f)  If an election under this section is held, an association may not submit a petition for recognition to the governing body of the municipality under Section 142.155 before the second anniversary of the date of the election.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 187 (S.B. 1104), Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 2007.