Relating to certain offenses for providing services involving an irrigation system without a license.
Impact
By reinforcing licensing requirements for irrigation service providers, HB2157 seeks to ensure that all personnel involved in these activities meet established qualifications and standards. The bill specifically notes that it applies only to offenses committed after the effective date, which is set for September 1, 2013. This establishes a clear legal framework for enforcement and gives relevant agencies the tools needed to address any violations effectively. Given the importance of proper irrigation practices for environmental stewardship and resource management, the bill is expected to have positive implications for water conservation efforts.
Summary
House Bill 2157 introduces amendments to the Texas Occupations Code regarding the unlicensed operation of irrigation systems. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any person who sells, designs, installs, maintains, alters, repairs, services, or provides consultation for an irrigation system must possess a valid license issued by the Texas Commission under Chapter 37, Water Code. This legislation aims to enhance regulation within the irrigation industry, establishing clear guidelines to encourage compliance among service providers and protect the integrity of irrigation practices in the state.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, the bill does raise some points of contention amongst industry stakeholders. Critics argue that such stringent licensing requirements might impose unnecessary burdens on small business operators and independent contractors who may lack the resources to comply with licensing procedures. Supporters, on the other hand, assert that the need for a well-trained workforce, adept in best practices, outweighs the objections regarding operational constraints. This tension reflects broader themes in regulatory discussions regarding the balance between consumer protection and the support of small businesses.
Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.
Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.
Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.
Relating to the suspension of the driver's license of a person arrested for an offense involving the operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol.