Relating to contracts by governmental entities for professional services relating to geoscience.
Impact
The incorporation of professional geoscience into the realm of governmental contracts is expected to streamline the procurement process for governmental entities. By establishing a more standardized method for procuring these services, the bill is likely to facilitate better planning and execution of projects that require geoscientific expertise. The amendment is intended to promote the use of qualified professionals in geoscience, potentially leading to improved outcomes in state projects that impact natural resources, land use, and environmental sustainability.
Summary
SB941 seeks to amend the Government Code of Texas to include professional geoscience as a recognized field for which governmental entities can contract services. This bill explicitly expands the definition of 'professional services' to encompass geoscientific services, thus allowing qualified geoscientists to engage with government contracts similar to other recognized professions such as engineering, architecture, and surveying. This change aims to address the growing importance of geoscience in various projects, particularly those related to environmental assessments and infrastructure development.
Contention
While the bill is primarily technical, its introduction may raise questions about the implications for existing contracts and the qualifications required for geoscientific services. Some stakeholders may advocate for further clarity on how geoscientific qualifications will be standardized and assessed against other established professions. Moreover, concerns could arise regarding the balance of interests among professional organizations that represent various fields within the construction and environmental sectors, particularly about how opportunities will be allocated among them.
Relating to the procurement by local governments of energy savings performance contracts for certain conservation measures; creating criminal offenses; authorizing a fee.
Probate: guardians and conservators; requirements to be appointed as guardian or conservator; modify. Amends title & secs. 5106, 5108a, 5313 & 5409 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.5106 et seq.) & adds secs. 5106a & 5106b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4171'23
Occupations: individual licensing and registration; licensure of professional guardians and conservators; require. Amends sec. 303a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.303a) & adds art. 14A.