Texas House Bill HB3521

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/3/23

Caption

Relating to the recovery of certain direct administrative costs incurred by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy in imposing disciplinary action against a license holder.

Impact

If enacted, HB3521 would significantly impact the financial practices of the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy by allowing them to impose additional costs on license holders found to have engaged in misconduct. The enforcement of such financial penalties could assist in covering the expenses associated with investigations and disciplinary actions, thus relieving some financial burdens on the state budget. Furthermore, it could enhance compliance among license holders, as the potential for personal financial repercussions might motivate adherence to regulatory standards.

Summary

House Bill 3521 addresses the recovery of certain direct administrative costs incurred by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy when imposing disciplinary actions against license holders. The bill aims to amend Section 901.501 of the Occupations Code to allow the Board to charge license holders for costs associated with disciplinary proceedings, including investigative expenses, attorney fees, and related administrative costs. This legislative move is meant to ensure that the Board can recover expenses that arise from enforcing disciplinary measures, thereby potentially providing better financial resources for regulatory enforcement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally supportive among fiscal conservatives who advocate for accountability and the efficient use of state resources. Conversely, there may be concerns from some quarters regarding the fairness and equity of imposing additional financial burdens on license holders, particularly for smaller or independent practitioners who may struggle with these costs. Thus, the reception of the bill could vary depending on the stakeholders' perspectives on regulation and fiscal responsibility.

Contention

The notable points of contention likely arise from the implications of imposing additional costs on license holders. Critics may argue that this added financial pressure could disproportionately affect small firms or individual practitioners, potentially driving them out of business or discouraging new entrants to the field. Proponents, however, assert that the ability to recover costs is essential for the sustainability of the Board’s enforcement operations, emphasizing that accountability is necessary for maintaining the integrity of the profession.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

• Chapter 901. Accountants
  • Section: 501