Relating to the regulation of energy efficiency professionals; providing penalties; authorizing fees.
Impact
The implementation of SB617 will centralize the training and certification process for energy efficiency professionals, which is likely to improve the overall quality of energy evaluations conducted across the state. The bill outlines specific registration requirements, including evidence of training or certification, proof of insurance, and a criminal background check. By instituting these standards, the bill aims to protect consumers from unqualified individuals and to ensure the integrity of energy efficiency evaluations.
Summary
SB617, titled the Energy Efficiency Professionals Act, establishes a regulatory framework for individuals performing energy efficiency evaluations on residential and light commercial buildings in Texas. The bill mandates that energy efficiency professionals must register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, ensuring a standardized approach to conducting evaluations and providing reports. This regulation is aimed at enhancing the quality and reliability of energy efficiency services offered to the public, thereby promoting better energy consumption practices in the state.
Contention
While the bill has been crafted to streamline the energy efficiency profession, it may face contention from various stakeholders. Some may argue that these regulations could impose additional burdens on professionals already working in the field, potentially limiting the availability of services in certain areas. Furthermore, concerns may arise regarding the costs associated with training, certification, and compliance with regulatory standards, which could affect both professionals and their clients.
Relating to the procurement by local governments of energy savings performance contracts for certain conservation measures; creating criminal offenses; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
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.
Relating to the creation of the Texas Energy Efficiency Council to foster collaboration, coordination, and communication to enhance the state's energy efficiency performance; and strategically utilize the state's resources to optimize the benefits of energy efficiency programs.
Relating to creation of the Judicial Branch Certification Commission and the consolidation of judicial profession regulation; imposing penalties; authorizing fees.
Relating to creation of the Judicial Branch Certification Commission and the consolidation of judicial profession regulation; imposing penalties; authorizing fees.
Relating to energy efficiency standards for certain buildings and to high-performance design, construction, and renovation standards for certain buildings and facilities of institutions of higher education.