Texas House Bill HB1853

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/14/11
• Introduced: 2/25/11
• Voted on by House: 4/27/11
• Refer: 3/7/11
• Report Pass: 3/29/11

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.