Texas House Bill HB2955

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of industrialized housing by the manufactured housing division of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs; providing a criminal penalty; authorizing fees.

Impact

The implications of HB2955 are significant for state laws governing industrialized housing. By transferring regulatory authority to a dedicated division, the state seeks to provide a more coherent strategy for managing safety and construction standards in the manufactured housing sector. The bill sets forth specific requirements for building codes and inspection procedures, which includes design reviews and the necessity for compliance with established standards. Additionally, municipalities retain certain powers to regulate local construction and issuance of permits, thus ensuring some level of local oversight while aligning with state-level standards.

Summary

House Bill 2955 addresses the regulation of industrialized housing by transferring oversight responsibilities from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to the manufactured housing division of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. The bill aims to streamline the regulatory process, establish clearer guidelines and standards for manufactured homes, and ensure compliance with building codes. Key provisions focus on enhancing the regulatory framework and clarifying the definitions related to industrialized housing, modular components, and the roles of third-party inspectors.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB2955 appears generally supportive among industry stakeholders, who emphasize the need for a unified regulatory approach to streamline processes and enhance safety. However, some concerns have been raised about the adequacy of local control over housing regulations, particularly regarding aesthetic standards and compatibility with existing neighborhoods. Advocacy groups have expressed a desire for robust community involvement in decision-making processes related to housing standards.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance of authority between state and municipal regulations. While the bill acknowledges local governments' regulatory capacity, it places significant emphasis on state-level standards and inspections. This has raised questions regarding the potential for state overreach in local concerns and the ability of municipalities to enforce regulations that reflect specific local needs. The provision that limits municipalities from enforcing stricter regulations than those mandated at the state level is particularly contentious, as local entities often seek to address unique housing challenges within their communities.