Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3214

Filed
2/24/25  
Out of House Committee
4/16/25  
Voted on by House
5/2/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/22/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/25/25  
Governor Action
6/20/25  

Caption

Relating to eligibility for a master plumber license.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3214 is expected to impact the plumbing profession in Texas by streamlining the pathway to becoming a licensed master plumber. By reducing the time required to gain licensure, the bill may encourage more individuals to enter the profession and may help alleviate shortages. The bill also mandates the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to adopt necessary rules to implement these changes, thereby ensuring compliance with the new eligibility requirements. This could lead to an increased number of qualified professionals available for plumbing projects, which is crucial for addressing the state’s infrastructure needs.

Summary

House Bill 3214 proposes amendments to the eligibility criteria for obtaining a master plumber license in Texas. The bill modifies the existing law by changing the prerequisite work experience requirement for aspiring master plumbers from four years to two years, or allowing for one year of experience if the applicant has completed an accepted apprenticeship training program. This change aims to facilitate access to licensure for skilled individuals in the plumbing trade, potentially addressing workforce shortages in the plumbing industry.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3214 appears to be generally positive among stakeholders, particularly those in the plumbing industry who view the reduced licensure requirements as a beneficial change that will help combat the skills gap in plumbing. Supporters argue that enabling more apprentices to transition into licensed positions will enhance the quality and reliability of plumbing services in Texas. However, concerns have been raised about ensuring that expedited pathways do not compromise the quality of training and expertise needed to perform plumbing work safely and effectively.

Contention

One notable point of contention around HB 3214 involves the balance between increasing access to licensure and maintaining the integrity and safety standards of the plumbing profession. While stakeholders largely support the initiative to improve workforce accessibility, some express caution about potential risks if the quality of training diminishes. Critics worry that a focus on speed could lead to less adequately prepared plumbers entering the field, which may impact public safety and the overall quality of plumbing services in communities across Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 1301. Plumbers
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3407

Relating to requiring commercial automobile insurance for responsible master plumbers.

TX HB2334

Relating to an exemption from the plumbing licensing law for certain work performed on certain private property.

TX HB173

Relating to the licensing and regulation of genetic counselors; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX HB5074

Relating to the issuance of a license to practice medicine to certain applicants licensed or educated in a foreign country.

TX SB2446

Relating to an exemption from the plumbing licensing law for plumbing work performed on certain private property.

TX HB1747

Relating to the consequences of a criminal conviction on a person's eligibility for an occupational license.

TX SB734

Relating to the consequences of a criminal conviction on a person's eligibility for an occupational license.

TX HB1391

Relating to the requirements to obtain a residential wireman license.

TX SB484

Relating to the licensing and regulation of genetic counselors; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4470

Relating to school marshals, including eligibility for appointment as a school marshal, and licensure and training requirements.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.