Texas House Bill HB1857

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to an exemption from the plumbing licensing law for plumbing work performed on certain private property.

Impact

The implications of HB 1857 primarily affect plumbing regulations within Texas. By allowing unlicensed personnel to perform certain plumbing work on residential properties, the bill aims to facilitate access to plumbing services and potentially lower costs for homeowners. It specifically excludes plumbing activities for one-family and two-family dwellings, suggesting that the bill is more focused on larger properties or those beyond typical residential designations. This could lead to more significant changes in how plumbing work is managed and executed in varying contexts across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1857 proposes an amendment to the Occupations Code regarding plumbing work on certain private properties. Specifically, the bill creates an exemption from the plumbing licensing law for individuals performing plumbing installation, servicing, or repairs of service mains, service lines, and related equipment on private land. The exemption applies to work that is carried out from a public right of way or public easement to a point no less than five feet from any building or structure. This change is designed to simplify plumbing services on private property and provide relief from licensing requirements under specified conditions.

Contention

While the bill has potential benefits such as reducing regulatory burdens and making plumbing services more accessible, it may also raise concerns regarding safety and quality. Critics could argue that exempting individuals from licensing requirements may compromise plumbing standards, which are vital for ensuring public health and safety. The lack of oversight for certain plumbing operations could lead to inadequate workmanship and increased risks of plumbing failures or hazards, particularly in complex systems where proper installation and maintenance are crucial.