Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1233

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to persons authorized by law to conduct certain fire safety inspections and training.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts the training and certification requirements for fire safety inspections in Texas. By allowing non-certified individuals in smaller counties to perform inspections, it acknowledges the unique circumstances faced by rural and less populated areas. This flexibility could lead to improved fire safety responsiveness in these communities, but it raises concerns about the consistency and quality of inspections when compared to certified professionals. Supporters argue that this approach enhances local capability while remaining compliant with state fire safety standards.

Summary

House Bill 1233 seeks to amend existing regulations regarding who can conduct fire safety inspections and training. The bill stipulates that only individuals certified by the relevant commission may carry out fire safety inspections required by state or local law, rule, or ordinance. However, it introduces a notable exemption for counties with a population of less than 250,000. In these areas, individuals who have completed specific training or are members of volunteer fire departments are permitted to conduct inspections without requiring certification from the commission. This change aims to accommodate smaller communities that may face challenges in accessing certified inspectors.

Contention

While the bill aims to increase accessibility to fire safety inspections in smaller counties, it may face opposition regarding the adequacy of training offered by non-certified individuals. Critics may argue that the lack of certification could potentially compromise fire safety standards, exposing residents to increased risks. Additionally, the debate may focus on whether the amended regulations could inadvertently lead to discrepancies in inspection quality across Texas, with certified inspectors providing a higher assurance of compliance and technical expertise than their uncertified counterparts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1302

Relating to inspections and examinations by the Railroad Commission of Texas of certain sites and facilities conducted using unmanned aircraft.

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB13

Relating to training, preparedness, and funding for school safety and emergencies in public schools.

TX HB4979

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to certain student records and conduct.

TX HB198

Relating to vehicle safety inspections of certain travel trailers.

TX HB127

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX SB355

Relating to authorizing the Texas School Safety Center to conduct random safety and security audits of public schools; authorizing a civil penalty.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX SB1849

Relating to an interagency reportable conduct search engine, standards for a person's removal from the employee misconduct registry and eligibility for certification as certain Texas Juvenile Justice Department officers and employees, and the use of certain information by certain state agencies to conduct background checks.

TX HB907

Relating to persons authorized to conduct a marriage ceremony.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.