Text of section effective on April 01, 2025
Sec. 526.0356.  RULES FOR NONEMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES; COMPLIANCE.  (a)  The executive commissioner shall adopt rules to ensure the safe and efficient provision of nonemergency transportation services under this subchapter. The rules must:
(1)  include minimum standards regarding the physical condition and maintenance of motor vehicles used to provide the services, including standards regarding the accessibility of motor vehicles by individuals with disabilities;
(2)  require a regional contracted broker to:
(A)  verify that each motor vehicle operator providing the services or seeking to provide the services has a valid driver's license;
(B)  check the driving record information maintained by the Department of Public Safety under Subchapter C, Chapter 521, Transportation Code, of each motor vehicle operator providing the services or seeking to provide the services; and
(C)  check the public criminal record information maintained by the Department of Public Safety and made available to the public through the department's Internet website of each motor vehicle operator providing the services or seeking to provide the services; and
(3)  include training requirements for motor vehicle operators providing the services through a regional contracted broker, including training on:
(A)  passenger safety;
(B)  passenger assistance;
(C)  assistive devices, including wheelchair lifts, tie-down equipment, and child safety seats;
(D)  sensitivity and diversity;
(E)  customer service;
(F)  defensive driving techniques; and
(G)  prohibited behavior by motor vehicle operators.
(b)  Except as provided by Section 526.0358, the commission shall require compliance with the rules adopted under Subsection (a) in any contract entered into with a regional contracted broker to provide nonemergency transportation services under the medical transportation program.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 769 (H.B. 4611), Sec. 1.01, eff. April 1, 2025.