Texas House Bill HB2238

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/30/09
• Voted on by House: 4/9/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/24/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/5/09
• Governor Action: 5/20/09
• Enrolled: 5/11/09
• Passed: 5/20/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of manufactured housing.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB2238 are expected to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding manufactured housing, particularly by incorporating electronic processes that may simplify applications and compliance for manufacturers, retailers, and installers. Moreover, the bill emphasizes the importance of proper documentation concerning ownership and tax obligations, which could improve the process for both consumers and the department in managing manufactured home ownership and the associated financial liabilities.

Summary

House Bill 2238 addresses the regulation of manufactured housing in Texas, amending various sections of the Occupations Code. It introduces provisions to facilitate electronic means for actions related to the manufacturing housing department and alters requirements for salesperson and installer licensing. The amendments aim to streamline the licensing process by allowing provisional licenses and modifying the prerequisites for license renewal and course attendance. These provisions are designed to create a more efficient system for regulating manufactured housing sales and installations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2238 include the implications regarding retailer responsibilities and the handling of tax liens. The responsibility placed on retailers to manage documentation for ownership certificates and tax obligations could raise concerns about compliance and administrative burdens on smaller retailers. Additionally, the changes in the lien perfection process and the disclosure aspects for tax liens may lead to debates about transparency and consumer protection in transactions involving manufactured homes. Stakeholders may need to assess the balance between efficiency and oversight.