Texas Senate Bill SB871

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The bill also modifies existing qualifications for the members of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, transitioning the board to focus more on professional experience and ensuring that board members reflect the plumbing industry's diverse expertise. This change is significant as it renews the board's composition to include experienced licensed individuals from different sectors of plumbing, which is expected to improve the regulatory framework governing plumbing practices in Texas.

Summary

SB871 aims to amend the Occupations Code concerning the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. The bill adds requirements for occupational licenses in the plumbing sector, reinforcing the necessity of undergoing a criminal history check for existing licensees and those applying for licenses in the future. This move is intended to enhance safety and accountability in plumbing practices across Texas, ensuring that individuals involved in plumbing meet certain qualifications and standards.

Contention

Notably, SB871 introduces a provision that allows the board to issue temporary licenses and accept equivalent qualifications from other jurisdictions without requiring an examination. While this may streamline the licensing process and attract experienced plumbers from outside Texas, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of this approach, as it may compromise the standards of proficiency that Texas expects from its plumbing professionals. The need for balance between accessibility and maintaining high standards in plumbing licensure is a potential point of contention as the bill moves forward.