TX
Texas House Bill HB2853

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2853

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the practice of podiatry.

Impact

A significant aspect of the bill includes the introduction of provisions concerning expert witnesses in the department's handling of complaints. According to the newly added Section 202.204, the department is authorized to contract with expert witnesses—qualified podiatrists or other professionals who can assist in reviewing and prosecuting these complaints. This change is intended to streamline the complaint resolution process by involving specialized knowledge, which can enhance the department's ability to make informed decisions concerning the complaints lodged against podiatrists.

Summary

House Bill 2853 is designed to regulate the practice of podiatry within the state of Texas more effectively. The bill amends existing laws in the Occupations Code, specifically Section 202.2032, to specify the process by which complaints against podiatrists are handled. It mandates that the department shall notify the license holder of the complaint and the relevant parties involved, except in cases where such notification might jeopardize an ongoing investigation. This aims to ensure transparency and proper procedure in the resolution of grievances against podiatry practitioners.

Conclusion

Overall, House Bill 2853 aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing podiatric practice in Texas, focusing on the management of complaints and the integrity of the licensing process. By potentially improving oversight and accountability, the bill seeks to protect public welfare while assuring the quality of podiatric care in the state.

Contention

Moreover, the bill includes amendments that strengthen the criteria under which individuals may be denied licensure to practice podiatry. For instance, Section 202.253 outlines grounds for refusing licensure, including engaging in fraudulent acts or being convicted of offenses involving moral turpitude. Critics of such amendments may argue that they impose stringent barriers for entry into the profession, which could potentially limit access to podiatry services in Texas. Supporters, on the other hand, contend that these measures are imperative to ensure that only qualified and trustworthy practitioners serve the public.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB776

Relating to prohibited practices by physicians.

TX HB4889

Relating to the provision of acupuncture services by a chiropractor under a certificate issued by the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

TX SB14

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX HB2538

Relating to the repeal of provisions related to notice and consent to an abortion on a minor.

TX HB3588

Relating to an exemption from abortion restrictions for unemancipated minors and the repeal of provisions regarding notice and consent to those abortions.

TX HB1686

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX SB625

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX HB2764

Relating to self-inducement of an abortion or self-prescription of an abortion-inducing drug by physicians or applicants for a medical license.

TX HB1532

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and to the abuse of a child.

TX HB41

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria.

Similar Bills

MA H459

Enhancing podiatric profession's registration and oversight

MA H2262

Enhancing podiatric profession's registration and oversight

MA S164

Enhancing the podiatric profession's registration and oversight

MA S230

Enhancing the podiatric profession's registration and oversight

TX HB3078

Relating to sunset review of the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and the transfer of the regulation of podiatry to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; authorizing a reduction in fees.

TX SB318

Relating to transfer of the regulation of podiatry to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; authorizing a reduction in fees.

TX HB2847

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain occupations, activities, and agreements; providing a civil penalty; authorizing fees; requiring an occupational registration and an occupational license.

WV SB606

Relating to WV Medical Practice Act