Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB1606

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

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the practice of construction and program management for capital improvement projects of governmental entities.

Impact

This legislation amends the Occupations Code by adding Chapter 1306, which requires individuals or firms to obtain a certificate of registration before they can engage in construction management for governmental entities. The intent behind these amendments is not only to regulate those who lead such projects but also to safeguard public interests by ensuring that only those with adequate qualifications and experiences are authorized to do so. This could lead to improved project outcomes and potentially reduce costs through better management practices.

Summary

House Bill 1606 relates to the regulation of the practice of construction and program management for capital improvement projects by governmental entities in Texas. The bill aims to establish a framework that ensures qualified individuals or firms are involved in managing these projects, thereby enhancing accountability and operational efficiency. Specifically, it introduces provisions for the registration and regulation of construction manager-agents, who are defined as entities providing consultation services in various aspects of capital improvement projects, including project scope development, contract administration, and risk management.

Contention

One notable point of contention related to HB 1606 is the balance between ensuring professional oversight through registration and the potential burden this places on smaller contractors or firms that may struggle to meet the new requirements. While proponents argue that such regulations will ensure high standards and accountability in the management of public resources, critics express concerns about the inclusivity of the contracting process and whether it could inadvertently limit competition. The bill also delineates specific exclusions, such as contracts by the Texas Department of Transportation, to mitigate concerns about excessive regulation.

Companion Bills

TX SB1090

Identical Relating to the regulation of the practice of construction and program management for capital improvement projects of governmental entities.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3959

Relating to certain regulations and taxes utilized by governmental entities for construction and tourism.

TX SB2453

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX SB39

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX HB4071

Relating to the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses.

TX HB4294

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX HB3312

Relating to certain regulations adopted by governmental entities for the building products, materials, or methods used in the construction of residential or commercial buildings.

TX SB1056

Relating to the directors and administration of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3.

TX SB1955

Relating to the regulation of industrial housing and buildings.

TX SB1659

Relating to the sunset review process and certain governmental entities subject to that process.

TX HB1787

Relating to the method used to select engineers and general contractors for certain state highway construction projects.

Similar Bills

TX SB1090

Relating to the regulation of the practice of construction and program management for capital improvement projects of governmental entities.

TX SB1110

Relating to contracts by governmental entities and related professional services and to public works performance and payment bonds.

TX HB2106

Relating to contracts by governmental entities and related professional services and to public works performance and payment bonds.

TX HB628

Relating to contracts by governmental entities and related professional services and to public works performance and payment bonds.

TX HB4288

Relating to use of a program manager for certain public works projects.

TX SB857

Relating to the purchasing and contracting practices of junior college districts; providing criminal penalties.

LA HB556

Provides relative to contracts let by certain entities for capital projects in Orleans Parish

MO SB10

Modifies expiration dates of certain sections