Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1853

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/14/11  
Introduced
2/25/11  
Voted on by House
4/27/11  
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain employees of fire protection sprinkler system contractors; providing a penalty.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have significant implications for the fire protection industry in Texas. By requiring licensure and establishing specific qualifications for sprinkler technicians, the bill aims to ensure that only qualified individuals are responsible for the installation and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems. This may lead to increased accountability and higher standards of practice within the industry, potentially resulting in improved fire safety measures in residential and commercial properties. Employers will also be responsible for ensuring that licensed personnel are present at job sites, thereby enhancing compliance and oversight.

Summary

House Bill 1853 aims to establish a regulatory framework for the licensing and regulation of employees working for fire protection sprinkler system contractors in Texas. The bill introduces several new definitions, including 'fire protection sprinkler technician' and various license types for different aspects of sprinkler system installation and maintenance. It mandates that these technicians must hold a valid license to perform their duties, which can be obtained through proven experience and successful completion of a state examination. The objective is to enhance the qualifications of personnel in this critical field, thereby improving overall fire safety standards across the state.

Contention

While the bill is primarily viewed as a positive step towards enhancing public safety, it is not without its points of contention. Some stakeholders express concern about the added regulations and potential costs for contractors and technicians. Fees associated with licensing and ongoing education could pose financial challenges, particularly for smaller businesses. Furthermore, there may be debates regarding the practicality of the proposed examinations and training programs, as well as inquiries into whether the state’s insurance department can adequately support the rollout of these new requirements.

Companion Bills

TX SB1748

Identical Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain employees of fire protection sprinkler system contractors; providing a penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3890

Relating to the regulation and voluntary licensing of reroofing contractors by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; providing administrative and civil penalties; authorizing fees.

TX HB3804

Relating to fire protection sprinkler system requirements for certain residential buildings by municipalities, counties, and emergency services districts.

TX HB5000

Relating to licensing and regulation of certain child-care facilities; providing penalties.

TX HB3583

Relating to the licensing and regulation of youth sports programs; providing civil and administrative penalties; authorizing fees.

TX HB893

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid sick leave to employees; providing administrative and civil penalties.

TX HB2274

Relating to the licensing and regulation of anesthesiologist assistants; requiring an occupational license; providing an administrative penalty; authorizing fees.

TX HB3996

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1274

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB7

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB5

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

Similar Bills

TX SB766

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain employees of fire protection sprinkler system contractors; providing a penalty; imposing a fee; requiring occupational licenses.

TX SB237

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain employees of fire protection sprinkler system contractors; providing a penalty; imposing a fee; requiring occupational licenses.

TX HB1641

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain employees of fire protection sprinkler system contractors; providing a penalty; imposing a fee; requiring occupational licenses.

TX SB1748

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain employees of fire protection sprinkler system contractors; providing a penalty.

TX HB1971

Relating to regulation of fire protection sprinkler technicians.

TX SB1889

Relating to regulation of fire protection sprinkler technicians.

TX HB1142

Relating to regulation of fire protection sprinkler technicians.

LA HB1053

Provides relative to the Life Safety and Property Protection Licensing Act