Texas House Bill HB3129

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/16/09
• Voted on by House: 4/22/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/14/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/26/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of certain consumer transactions involving plumbing, air conditioning, and electrical services.

Impact

The proposed changes under HB3129 are expected to simplify the regulatory framework for licensed providers in the plumbing, air conditioning, and electrical sectors. By allowing these professionals to engage in consumer transactions without triggering certain cancellation laws, the bill may reduce their administrative burden. This can encourage more businesses to provide direct services to consumers, possibly leading to increased competition and lower prices in these service industries. However, it also raises concerns about consumer protections if cancellation rights are diminished in situations where services are sought actively by consumers.

Summary

House Bill 3129 proposes amendments to the Texas Occupations Code specifically concerning the regulation of consumer transactions involving plumbing, air conditioning, and electrical services. The bill aims to exempt these transactions from the provisions of Chapter 39 of the Business and Commerce Code, particularly those governing the cancellation of transactions. This exemption is applicable only when the transaction is initiated by the consumer, potentially changing how service providers interact with consumers and affecting their compliance obligations under previous regulations.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between facilitating consumer transactions and ensuring that consumers are adequately protected. Proponents argue that the bill will streamline processes and alleviate some of the regulatory constraints that currently burden service professionals. However, critics worry that the removal of cancellation rights could disadvantage consumers, particularly if they face issues with the services rendered. As such, the discourse around HB3129 reflects a common tension in regulatory reforms between promoting business interests and safeguarding consumer rights.