Texas Senate Bill SB122

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the procedure by which a state agency considers legislative intent when adopting an agency rule.

Impact

The passage of SB 122 is expected to enhance the transparency and accountability of state agencies when they create rules and regulations. By drawing in legislators earlier in the process, the bill aims to ensure that the rules adopted more closely reflect the original legislative intentions. This could lead to more effective governance as state rules will be formulated with direct input from those who sponsored the statutes they implement. It provides a clearer channel for legislators to express concerns or support, potentially mitigating conflicts and misunderstandings regarding the application of state laws.

Summary

Senate Bill 122 pertains to the procedural requirements for state agencies when adopting rules that are influenced by legislative intent. The bill mandates that prior to the adoption of a rule, state agencies must inform the relevant legislators whose legislation is affected by the rule. This requires state agencies to not only notify the legislators of the intention to adopt a rule but also to engage with them during the rule formation process, allowing for public hearings and opportunities for input from the lawmakers.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face contention depending on how much influence legislators will have over agency rule-making. Opponents may argue that requiring agencies to consult with legislators could slow down the rule-making process, complicating efforts to implement necessary regulations quickly. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the balance of power between legislative intent and executive agency autonomy, particularly if agencies find themselves constrained by legislative expectations. Addressing these concerns will be crucial for smooth implementation and acceptance of the bill.