Texas House Bill HB794

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to limitations on the enforcement of certain occupational regulations.

Impact

The enactment of HB 794 could lead to a transformation in how occupational regulations are enforced across Texas. Licensing authorities will need to justify the necessity of each regulation, potentially leading to the repeal of many that do not meet the new standards. This could increase economic opportunity for new entrants into various professions by reducing bureaucratic barriers, possibly enhancing market competition. However, it may simultaneously raise concerns regarding public safety and the quality of services provided in regulated occupations.

Summary

House Bill 794 introduces significant limitations on the enforcement of occupational regulations in the state of Texas. The bill mandates that all occupational regulations must be demonstrably necessary to fulfill legitimate public health, safety, and welfare objectives. Licensing authorities are required to conduct a comprehensive review of each regulation, analyzing its effects on various factors such as market competition and consumer costs. This review must specify the objectives served by each regulation and ultimately recommend whether they should be upheld, modified, or repealed.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 794 is the balance between regulatory necessity and protection against competition. Opponents may argue that loosening restrictions could compromise public health and safety by allowing unqualified individuals to enter certain professions. Supporters, however, emphasize the need to remove outdated or unnecessary regulations that hinder economic growth. The overall discussion in the legislature reflects a divide on how best to foster both economic development and safeguard public welfare.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section