Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB3949

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

Caption

Relating to the requirement that applicants for certain licenses be eligible for employment in the United States.

Impact

The passage of HB 3949 is expected to enhance the enforcement of immigration laws by aligning state licensing requirements with federal employment eligibility standards. By mandating that applicants establish work eligibility, the bill aims to prevent undocumented individuals from obtaining licenses that allow them to operate in various professional fields. This change in law could have significant implications for industries reliant on licensed professionals, such as healthcare, construction, and transportation, potentially affecting the availability of skilled labor if applicants struggle to meet the new requirements.

Summary

House Bill 3949 establishes a requirement for applicants seeking certain licenses in Texas to demonstrate their eligibility for employment in the United States. This regulation is aimed at ensuring that individuals holding or applying for occupational licenses have the legal right to work within the state. Under this bill, the licensing authorities will be prohibited from issuing or renewing a license unless the applicant can provide appropriate documentation verifying their employment eligibility. The bill includes specific provisions for different types of licenses and outlines the necessary documents that applicants must furnish as proof.

Contention

Notably, discussions about HB 3949 have raised concerns regarding access to occupational licenses, particularly for communities with undocumented individuals who may lack formal employment documentation. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary for maintaining the integrity of the licensing process, while opponents fear that it may disproportionately impact lower-income individuals and exacerbate existing labor shortages in certain fields. The requirement may also pose challenges for those with legitimate employment but lacking sufficient documentation, potentially creating barriers to entry in licensed professions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4528

Relating to the requirement that a peace officer take possession of a person's driver's license following the person's failure to pass or refusal to consent to a test for intoxication.

TX HB4526

Relating to the application requirements for a license to carry a handgun.

TX HB4446

Relating to certain licensing and permitting requirements for game rooms; authorizing an occupational permit or license; authorizing a fee.

TX HB3748

Relating to ensuring access to the right to vote by all eligible voters.

TX HB3641

Relating to residency requirements for driver's licenses and personal identification certificates.

TX HB5074

Relating to the issuance of a license to practice medicine to certain applicants licensed or educated in a foreign country.

TX SB1976

Relating to the consideration of criminal history record information of applicants for public employment or an occupational license.

TX HB4558

Relating to the eligibility of certain applicants for licensure by the Texas Board of Nursing.

TX HB4470

Relating to school marshals, including eligibility for appointment as a school marshal, and licensure and training requirements.

TX SB81

Relating to certain laws that regulate aspects of illegal immigration in this state, including laws pertaining to the DNA records of certain persons subject to an immigration detainer request, the recognition of certain out-of-state driver's licenses, inviting certain federal agencies to participate on the homeland security council, the reporting of certain uncompensated hospital care costs, and certain requirements for participation in the E-verify program; increasing a criminal penalty.

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