Texas Senate Bill SB20

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to avoiding the abolishment of certain agencies subject to the Texas Sunset Act.

Impact

The enactment of SB20 would affirm the roles of important regulatory bodies that oversee health-related professions, thus continuing to safeguard public health and welfare. The Texas Medical Board and similar entities play critical roles in licensing, regulating, and providing oversight of professionals to ensure quality standards in various fields. The preservation of these agencies allows for ongoing accountability and professional conduct within these sectors, which is especially significant for client trust and safety in healthcare and mental health services.

Summary

S.B. No. 20 addresses the continued existence of various regulatory agencies under the Texas Sunset Act. This Act is designed to periodically review and potentially abolish state agencies that are not deemed necessary for continued operation. Specifically, the bill aims to prevent the abolishment of the Texas Medical Board, the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists, the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, and the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. By extending the life of these agencies, SB20 ensures that they can continue to regulate their respective professions and protect public interests in their areas of expertise.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding S.B. No. 20 appears to be positive, especially among proponents who value the ongoing oversight and regulation of medical and mental health practices. Supporters consider the bill essential for maintaining high professional standards and providing necessary consumer protections. There was consensus among legislators, as reflected in the unanimous votes in both the Senate (31-0) and House (121-0) indicating bipartisan support for the bill. This broad approval suggests a shared understanding of the importance of these regulatory bodies.

Contention

While there has not been prominent public contention associated with SB20, the underlying principles of the Texas Sunset Act often provoke discussions about government efficiency and the necessity of certain agencies. Critics of the Sunset Act sometimes argue it leads to unnecessary bureaucracy. However, in the case of SB20, the unanimous passage illustrates a strong legislative consensus about the vital functions performed by these boards. Maintaining these agencies helps ensure they can adapt and respond to evolving professional standards and public needs, which may not have been a point of contention within the legislative framework for this bill.