Texas House Bill HB3417

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of manufactured homes.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3417 is poised to have a significant impact on state laws regarding manufactured home regulations, allowing for greater flexibility in the industry during crisis situations. By allowing the waiver of licensing requirements, the bill aims to facilitate a quicker response to housing needs during emergencies, thus streamlining access to manufactured homes in urgent circumstances. These changes could enhance the efficiency of the state’s housing response in disaster situations.

Summary

House Bill 3417 addresses the regulation of manufactured homes in Texas, primarily focusing on the operational regulations that come into effect during declared emergencies. The bill empowers the director overseeing manufactured home regulations to waive certain licensing requirements during emergencies lasting longer than 14 days. This provision is intended to maintain an adequate supply of professionals necessary for constructing, selling, transporting, installing, and financing manufactured homes while ensuring that these services remain operational during emergencies.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 3417 appears to be supportive, particularly from stakeholders involved in the housing and manufactured home sectors. Advocates argue that the bill provides essential provisions that can help address housing shortages in emergencies. However, some concerns may arise regarding the implications of waiving licensing requirements, as this could raise questions about quality control and consumer protection, which are critical in housing matters.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between regulatory flexibility and consumer protection. While the bill aims to expedite housing solutions during emergencies, critics may express concerns about potential risks associated with fewer regulatory oversight measures. The discussion could also delve into the broader implications for the manufactured home industry and whether such changes could lead to a precedent for relaxing regulations in other areas.