Relating to the review by the Sunset Advisory Commission of legislation proposing to regulate an occupation.
Impact
If enacted, HB 825 would fundamentally change how occupational licensing is approached in Texas by requiring legislative proposals to undergo a thorough review process before implementation. The commission will evaluate whether the unregulated practice poses a risk to the public and if the public would benefit from formal regulation. As a result, this could strengthen the rationale behind occupational regulations, ensure that only necessary and effective measures are in place, and potentially limit unnecessary expansions of the regulatory framework.
Summary
House Bill 825 seeks to amend the Government Code of Texas by adding a section that mandates the Sunset Advisory Commission to review and analyze proposed legislation that aims to regulate an occupation. The objective is to ensure that any such regulation is justified in the public interest, primarily focusing on protecting individuals from recognizable harm to health, safety, or welfare. This means that any proposed licensing program must demonstrate tangible benefits to the public, rather than addressing speculative threats or non-demonstrable risks.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around HB 825 appears to align with a pragmatic approach to occupational regulation. Supporters believe that the bill would provide a structured process to evaluate the necessity of new licensing programs, thereby preventing an overreach of regulatory measures and ensuring accountability in the legislative process. However, critics may argue that this could inadvertently slow down the implementation of necessary protections and inhibit the establishment of new regulatory frameworks when public health and safety concerns arise.
Contention
Notable points of contention related to HB 825 involve the balance between necessary regulation and overregulation. Some stakeholders may view the requirement for a review as an added bureaucratic hurdle that could delay urgent regulations meant to protect public interests. Additionally, there may be disagreements over what constitutes a 'recognizable harm' and who determines the effectiveness of existing regulatory frameworks, potentially leading to debates around transparency and accountability in the legislative process.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the licensing and regulation of lactation consultants and the creation of the Lactation Consultant Advisory Board; requiring an occupational license; imposing fees; providing penalties; creating a criminal offense.