Relating to the Texas Real Estate Commission and the regulation of certain real estate professionals; increasing a fee; authorizing a fee.
Impact
This legislation significantly impacts state laws governing real estate practices, particularly in establishing a framework that allows for increased fees as a means of securing adequate funding for the Texas Real Estate Commission's operational and regulatory responsibilities. By enabling the Commission to adjust fees as necessary, the bill helps to maintain high standards within the real estate profession while addressing any budgetary constraints the Commission may face in fulfilling its regulatory obligations.
Summary
House Bill 1918 addresses the regulation of real estate professionals in Texas by amending provisions under Chapter 1101 of the Occupations Code. The bill's intent is to provide the Texas Real Estate Commission with the authority to increase fees associated with broker licenses and sales agent licenses, thereby enhancing the commission's capacity to regulate the field effectively. The fee adjustments are constructed to ensure that the Commission can fulfill its duties, which include oversight of educational programs, enforcement of licensing requirements, and handling disciplinary issues involving licensed professionals.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 1918 involves concerns raised by industry stakeholders regarding the potential burden of increased fees on new and small real estate businesses. Critics argue that raising fees could limit access to the profession and impose financial strain on emerging brokers and agents. Supporters, however, argue that the fees are essential for maintaining the integrity of licensing processes and ensuring that the Commission has the necessary resources to enforce compliance and protect consumers from fraud and malpractices within the real estate market.
Relating to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, the Real Estate Research Advisory Committee, the Texas Real Estate Commission, and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board; increasing a fee; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, the Real Estate Research Advisory Committee, the Texas Real Estate Commission, and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board; increasing a fee; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
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.