Texas House Bill HB1606

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

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.