Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1947

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to licenses for insurance agents and adjusters.

Impact

The passage of HB1947 will significantly impact the management and oversight of insurance agents and their licensing protocols in Texas. By standardizing the renewal dates to the individual’s birthday in the even or odd-numbered year, the bill seeks to simplify the renewal process for license holders. Additionally, the adjustments to fees are intended to ensure that the Texas Department of Insurance can effectively manage its operations through sufficient funding. This legislative change is designed to provide clarity for agents and reduce administrative burdens.

Summary

House Bill 1947 amends various sections of the Texas Insurance Code concerning the licensing of insurance agents and adjusters. It specifically addresses the fees associated with license applications and renewals, establishing clear guidelines on renewal dates tied to the license holder's birthday and provisions for license expiration. The legislation aims to streamline processes for obtaining and maintaining insurance licenses, ultimately enhancing regulatory efficiency within the state's insurance sector.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1947 appears to be largely positive among insurance industry stakeholders who support the amendments for their potential to alleviate complexity in licensing procedures. However, there may be concerns regarding how the changes will affect the continuing education requirements, as the bill does stipulate consequences for failing to meet those obligations. Overall, the general sentiment leans towards a supportive stance on improving the regulatory framework for insurance licensing in Texas.

Contention

Notably, discussions around HB1947 have touched upon potential contention related to the renewal and continuing education requirements. Some critics may argue that the further reinforcement of continuing education as a prerequisite for license renewal could impose additional burdens on agents, especially those who may struggle to fulfill educational obligations. The balance between ensuring qualified insurance professionals and managing the logistical challenges for agents remains a pivotal point of discussion.

Companion Bills

TX SB844

Identical Relating to the expiration of licenses for insurance agents and adjusters.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3496

Relating to insurance adjuster license application procedures.

TX SB2477

Relating to insurance adjuster license application procedures.

TX HB173

Relating to the licensing and regulation of genetic counselors; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX SB484

Relating to the licensing and regulation of genetic counselors; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX HB2556

Relating to the licensing and regulation of physician graduates and the authority of an insured to select a physician graduate under the insured's health insurance policy; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.

TX HB667

Relating to the licensing and regulation of music therapists; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.

TX SB478

Relating to the administration of the motorcycle operator training and safety program and requirements for the issuance of certain driver's licenses and commercial driver's licenses; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX HB700

Relating to creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange; authorizing an assessment.

TX HB2554

Relating to creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange; authorizing an assessment.

TX HB291

Relating to occupational driver's licenses and to the renewal of driver's licenses.

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CA AB2009

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