Relating to the active supervision of occupational licensing authorities by the attorney general.
Impact
The implementation of SB844 will impact existing regulations by instituting a more rigorous supervisory role for the attorney general over occupational licensing agencies. By enforcing more stringent oversight on how these agencies create and implement rules, the bill seeks to ensure that the regulations are not overly restrictive, thereby promoting economic opportunities and innovation. Advocates argue that this will foster a fairer environment for individuals entering various professions, as it limits unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that might inhibit workforce participation.
Summary
SB844 proposes significant changes to the regulation of occupational licensing authorities in Texas. The bill mandates that the attorney general actively supervise these authorities to ensure their rules and policies align with state guidelines that protect consumer interests. This includes overseeing the development of regulations, reviewing proposed actions, and investigating complaints against licensing authorities that may violate established policies. Through this structure, SB844 aims to provide a higher level of accountability and consumer protection in licensing activities.
Contention
Despite its intention to support consumer protection, SB844 has raised concerns regarding the balance between oversight and regulatory efficiency. Critics suggest that increased oversight could lead to delays in the implementation of necessary regulations and create a bottleneck effect, potentially stifling timely responses to emerging challenges in various fields. Furthermore, there's a debate over the scope of the attorney general's power, and whether such centralized authority could inadvertently benefit or bias certain interests over others in the regulatory landscape.
Relating to the licensing and regulation of anesthesiologist assistants; requiring an occupational license; providing an administrative penalty; authorizing fees.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Probate: powers of attorney; use of 2-way real-time audio-visual technology to execute a power of attorney; allow. Amends secs. 102 & 105 of 2023 PA 187 (MCL 556.202 & 556.205).