Bill Caption

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

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

This bill would extend legislative authority for the following professional boards: Texas Medical Board, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists, Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. These boards are currently scheduled to expire September 1, 2017. This bill would extend the boards until September 1, 2019 without making any alterations to the terms and conditions of occupational licensure for the related licensed professions. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

While we have deep reservations about many of the detrimental effects of occupational licensing in general, we are pleased that this legislation does not add onerous new occupational licensing requirements for the related professions. Because this bill would maintain the status quo, neither increasing nor reducing the burden of occupational licensure, we remain neutral.