TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 9. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 163. LICENSURE

22 TAC §163.5

The Texas State Board of Medical Examiners proposes an amendment to §163.5, concerning licensure. This section is being proposed to amend the language regarding photographs that are submitted with licensure applications and documentation required for applicants who have been treated for alcohol/substance abuse or mental illness.

John S. Teer, General Counsel, Texas State Board of Medical Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the amendment is in effect there will be no fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the amendment as proposed.

Mr. Teer also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendment as proposed is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amendment will be amended language regarding photographs that are submitted with licensure applications and documentation required for applicants who have been treated for alcohol/substance abuse or mental illness. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the amendment as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Pat Wood, P.O. Box 2018, MC-901, Austin, Texas 78768-2018. A public hearing will be held at a later date.

The amendment is proposed under the authority of the Occupations Code, §153.001, which provides the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners to adopt rules and bylaws as necessary to: govern its own proceedings; perform its duties; regulate the practice of medicine in this state; and enforce this subtitle.

The Occupations Code, §155.101 is affected by the proposed amendment.

§163.5.Licensure Documentation.

(a)

An applicant must appear for a personal interview at the board offices and present original documents to a representative of the board for inspection. Original documents may include, but are not limited to, those listed in subsections (b)-(e) of this section.

(b)

Documentation required of all applicants for licensure.

(1)

Birth Certificate/Proof of Age. Each applicant for licensure must provide a copy of [ either ] a birth certificate and translation if necessary to prove that the applicant is a least 21 years of age. In instances where a birth certificate is not available the applicant must provide copies of a passport or other suitable alternate documentation.

(2)

Name Change. Any applicant who submits documentation showing a name other than the name under which the applicant has applied must present copies of marriage licenses, divorce decrees, or court orders stating the name change. In cases where the applicant's name has been changed by naturalization the applicant should send the original naturalization certificate by certified mail to the board office for inspection.

(3)

Examination Scores. Each applicant for licensure must have a certified transcript of grades submitted directly from the appropriate testing service to this board for all examinations used in Texas or another state for licensure.

(4)

Dean's Certification. Each applicant for licensure must have a certificate of graduation submitted directly from the medical school on a form provided by the board. The applicant shall attach a recent photograph, meeting United States Government passport standards, to the form before submitting to the medical school. The school shall have the Dean of the medical school or designated appointee sign the form attesting to the information on the form and placing the school seal over the photograph.

(5)

Medical Diploma. All applicants for licensure must submit a copy of their medical diploma.

(6)

Evaluations. All applicants must provide evaluations, on a form provided by the board, of their professional affiliations for the past ten years or since graduation from medical school, whichever is the shorter period.

(7)

Premedical School Transcript. Each applicant must submit a copy of the record of their undergraduate education. Transcripts must show courses taken and grades obtained. If determined that the documentation submitted by the applicant is not sufficient to show proof of the completion of 60 semester hours of college courses other than in medical school, which courses would be acceptable, at the time of completion, to The University of Texas at Austin for credit on a bachelor of arts degree or a bachelor of science degree, the applicant may be requested to contact the Office of Admissions at The University of Texas at Austin for course work verification.

(8)

Medical School Transcript. Each applicant must have his or her medical school submit a transcript of courses taken and grades obtained.

(9)

National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB). Each applicant must contact the NPDB and have a report of action submitted directly to the board on the applicant's behalf.

(10)

Federation of State Medical Boards History Report. Each applicant must contact the Federation of State Medical Boards and have a history report submitted directly to the board on the applicant's behalf.

(11)

Physician's Profile. Each applicant must have a "Physician's Profile" report submitted directly to the board on the applicant's behalf from:

(A)

American Medical Association; or

(B)

American Osteopathic Association.

(12)

Fingerprint Card. Each applicant must complete a fingerprint card and return to the board as part of the application.

(13)

Graduate Training Verification. Each applicant must submit a certificate showing successful completion of required training. The certificate must show the beginning and ending dates of the program and state that the program was successfully completed. An applicant must have the current Program Director of the program in which the applicant trained submit a letter, addressed to this board, submitted directly to this board stating the beginning and ending dates of the program and attesting to successful completion.

(14)

Temporary License Affidavit. Each applicant must submit a completed form, furnished by the board, titled "Temporary License Affidavit" prior to the issuance of a temporary license.

[ (15)

Additional Photograph. Applicants required to sit for the USMLE examination must submit two recent photographs that meet United States Government passport standards. ]

(15)

[ (16) ] Specialty Board Certification. Each applicant that has obtained certification by a board that is a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties or the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists must submit a copy of the certificate issued by the member showing board certification.

(16)

[ (17) ] Continuing Medical Education (CME). Each applicant must provide copies of certificates showing completion of at least equal to the number of CME hours required by the endorsing state.

(17)

[ (18) ] Medical License Verifications. Each applicant will have every state, in which he or she has ever been licensed, regardless of the current status of the license, submit on his or her behalf, directly to this board a letter verifying the status of the license and a description of any sanctions or pending disciplinary matters.

(c)

Applicants for licensure who are graduates of unapproved foreign medical schools must furnish all appropriate documentation listed in this subsection, as well as that listed in subsections (a) and (b) of this section.

(1)

Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate. Applicants must submit a copy of a valid ECFMG Certificate unless they have completed a Fifth Pathway program. All Fifth Pathway applicants must submit a copy of their ECFMG interim certificate.

(2)

Unique Documentation. The board may request documentation unique to an individual unapproved medical school and additional documentation as needed to verify completion of medical education.

(3)

Certificate of Registration. Each applicant must provide a copy of his or her certificate to practice in the country in which his or her medical school is located. If a certificate is unavailable, a letter, submitted directly to this board, from the body governing licensure of physicians in the country in which the school is located, will be accepted. The letter must state that the applicant has met all the requirements for licensure in the country in which the school is located. If an applicant is not licensed in the country of graduation due to a citizenship requirement, a letter attesting to this, submitted directly to this board, will be required.

(4)

Clinical Clerkship Affidavit. A form, supplied by the board, to be completed by the applicant, is required listing each clinical clerkship that was completed as part of an applicant's medical education. The form will require the name of the clerkship, where the clerkship was located (name of hospital and location of hospital) and dates of the clerkship.

(d)

Applicants may be required to submit other documentation, which may include the following.

(1)

Translations. Any document that is in a language other than the English language will need to have a certified translation prepared and a copy of the translation will have to be submitted along with the translated document.

(A)

An official translation from the medical school (or appropriate agency) attached to the foreign language transcript or other document is acceptable.

(B)

If a foreign document is received without a translation, the board will send the applicant a copy of the document to be translated and returned to the board.

(C)

Documents must be translated by a translation agency who is a member of the American Translations Association or a United States college or university official.

(D)

The translation must be on the translator's letterhead, and the translator must verify that it is a "true word for word translation" to the best of his/her knowledge, and that he/she is fluent in the language translated, and is qualified to translate the document.

(E)

The translation must be signed in the presence of a notary public and then notarized. The translator's name must be printed below his/her signature. The notary public must use this phrase: "Subscribed and Sworn to this day of , 20 ." The notary must then sign and date the translation, and affix his/her Notary Seal to the document.

(2)

Arrest Records. If an Applicant has ever been arrested a copy of the arrest and arrest disposition need to be requested from the arresting authority and said authority must submit copies directly to this board.

(3)

Malpractice. If an applicant has ever been named in a malpractice claim filed with any medical liability carrier or if an applicant has ever been named in a malpractice suit, the applicant must have the following submitted:

(A)

have each medical liability carrier complete a form furnished by this board regarding each claim filed against the applicant's insurance;

(B)

for each claim that becomes a malpractice suit have the attorney representing the applicant in each suit submit a letter directly to this board explaining the allegation, dates of the allegation, and current status of the suit. If the suit has been closed, the attorney must state the disposition of the suit, and if any money was paid, the amount of the settlement. If such letter is not available, the Applicant will be required to furnish a notarized affidavit explaining why this letter cannot be provided;

(C)

a statement, composed by the applicant, explaining the circumstances pertaining to patient care in defense of the allegations.

(4)

Inpatient Treatment for Alcohol/Substance Abuse or Mental Illness. Each applicant that has been admitted to an inpatient facility within the last five [ ten ] years for the treatment of alcohol/substance abuse or mental illness must submit the following:

(A)

an applicant's statement explaining the circumstances of the hospitalization;

(B)

all records [ an admitting summary and discharge summary ], submitted directly from the inpatient facility;

(C)

a statement from the applicant's treating physician/psychotherapist as to diagnosis, prognosis, medications prescribed, and follow-up treatment recommended;

(D)

a copy of any contracts signed with any licensing authority or medical society or impaired physician's committee.

(5)

Outpatient Treatment for Alcohol/Substance Abuse or Mental Illness. Each applicant that has been treated on an outpatient basis within the last five [ ten ] years for alcohol/substance abuse or mental illness must submit the following:

(A)

an applicant's statement explaining the circumstances of the outpatient treatment;

(B)

a statement from the applicant's treating physician/psychotherapist as to diagnosis, prognosis, medications prescribed, and follow-up treatment recommended; and

(C)

a copy of any contracts signed with any licensing authority or medical society or impaired physician's committee.

(6)

Additional Documentation. Additional documentation as is deemed necessary to facilitate the investigation of any application for medical licensure.

(7)

DD214. A copy of the DD214 , indicating separation from any branch of the United States military.

(e)

The board may, in unusual circumstances, allow substitute documents where proof of exhaustive efforts on the applicant's part to secure the required documents is presented. These exceptions are reviewed by the board's executive director on a case-by-case basis.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 6, 2000.

TRD-200001698

Bruce A. Levy, M.D., J.D.

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Medical Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7016


Part 17. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS

Chapter 365. LICENSING

22 TAC §365.14

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners proposes the repeal of §365.14, Continuing Education Programs and proposes new §365.14, Continuing Professional Education Programs.

On February 2, 2000, the 126th District Court of Travis County held that the current (existing) §365.14 was invalid with regard to the development, production and distribution of course materials. In response to the decision of the court, the Board now proposes the repeal of the existing §365.14 and the adoption of a new rule.

The proposed new rule sets forth the criteria necessary to allow the Board to annually approve multiple Course Materials, Course Providers and Course Instructors to be used for Continuing Professional Education Programs for the renewal of Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber and Plumbing Inspector Licenses. The proposed new rule will allow any individual, business or association that meets the criteria set out in the rule to be approved by the Board to provide Courses or Course Materials or to be an Instructor of Course Materials. This proposed new rule will enable the Board to fully explore and make available, when appropriate, continuing education programs developed in the market place of ideas which will assist our licensees in maintaining and developing the variety of skills which are necessary for the protection of the health and safety of the citizens of the State of Texas.

Doretta A. Conrad, Administrator, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period that repeal and the new rule are in effect there will be fiscal implications for state government as a result of enforcing and administering the rules as proposed. The Board will reallocate current resources to accommodate the costs of additional staff time required to review additional applications for Course Materials, Course Providers and Course Instructors. Reallocation of Board funds will also be applied to cover the cost of computer changes necessary to record and track approved providers of Course Materials, Course Providers, Course Instructors and to electronically transfer Licensee CPE credits for the renewal of licenses and endorsements.

There should be no effect on local government or to the individuals required to comply with the repeal and the new rule as proposed because the method by which continuing education requirements will be fulfilled by the licensees will not change, nor should the cost to the licensees significantly change. Small businesses may benefit from the proposed new rule if eligible to provide Course Materials or to become a Course Provider.

Ms. Conrad has determined that each year of the first five years the repeal and the new rule are in effect the protection of health and safety of the citizens will be benefitted through the assurance that licensed Plumbers and Plumbing Inspectors will receive important updates on current industry practices in the subjects of health protection, energy and water conservation and the laws, rules and codes affecting licensees through continuing professional education that is provided with structured criteria adopted by the Board.

The Board will conduct a public hearing on the proposed repeal of §365.14 and proposed new rule §365.14 on March 28, 2000, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's office, located at 929 E. 41st St., Austin, Texas. Interested persons should contact Doretta A. Conrad, Administrator, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200, 1- (800) 845-6584, for information or special accommodations.

Written comments on the proposed repeal and proposed new rule may be submitted no later than 30 following the date of publication in the Texas Register, to Doretta A. Conrad, Administrator, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The repeal is proposed under and affect Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 6243-101 ("Act"), §5(a), 1§12B(a), §12B(b), §12B(c) and the rule it repeals §5(a) of the Act authorizes, empowers and directs the Board to prescribe, amend and enforce all rules and regulations necessary to carry out the Act. Section 12B(a) requires a plumbing license holder to complete at least six hours of continuing professional education each license year. Section 12B(b) directs that the Board, by rule, adopt criteria for continuing professional education. Section 12B(c) specifies that in order for persons to receive credit for participation in a continuing professional education program or course, the program or course must have been provided according to criteria adopted by the Board by an individual, business, or association approved by the Board.

No other statute, article or code is affected by this repeal.

§365.14.Continuing Education Programs.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 3, 2000.

TRD-200001673

Robert L. Maxwell

Chief Investigator/Field Services

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-2145, ext. 222


The new rule is proposed under and affects Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated Article 6243-101 ("Act"), §5(a), 1§12B(a), §12B(b), §12B(c) and the rule it amends. Section 5(a) of the Act authorizes, empowers and directs the Board to prescribe, amend and enforce all rules and regulations necessary to carry out the Act. Section 12B(a) requires a plumbing license holder to complete at least six hours of continuing professional education each license year. Section 12B(b) directs that the Board, by rule, adopt criteria for continuing professional education. Section 12B(c) specifies that in order for persons to receive credit for participation in a continuing professional education program or course, the program or course must have been provided according to criteria adopted by the Board by an individual, business, or association approved by the Board.

No other statute, article or code is affected by this proposed new rule.

§365.14.Continuing Professional Education Programs.

(a)

Course Materials - Beginning in preparation for the 2000-2001 Continuing Professional Education year (begins on July 1, 2000), the Board will annually approve Course Materials to be used for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) required for renewal of Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber and Plumbing Inspector Licenses. The Course Materials are the printed materials that are the basis for a substantial portion of a CPE course and which are provided to the Licensees. Board approval of Course Materials will be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Section. The following minimum criteria will be used by the Board in considering approval of Course Materials:

(1)

The Course Materials will provide the basis for a minimum of six classroom hours of study. Three of the six hours will be in the subjects of health protection, energy conservation and water conservation, with the remaining three hours covering subjects which shall include information concerning the Act, Board Rules, current industry practices and codes, and subjects from lists of approved subjects published by the Board.

(2)

The Board will periodically publish lists of approved subjects.

(3)

The Course Materials must be presentations of relevant issues and changes within the subject areas as they apply to the plumbing practice in the current market or topics which increase or support the Licensee's development of skill and competence.

(4)

The provider of the Course Materials must provide the Course Materials, as needed, in correspondence course form to comply with §12B(d) of the Act, which are to be made available for at least three (3) years or as necessary for renewal of an expired license.

(5)

The Course Materials may not advertise or promote the sale of goods, products or services.

(6)

The Course Materials must be printed and bound and must meet the following minimum technical specifications for printing and production:

(A)

Binding - Perfect or Metal Coiled,

(B)

Ink - Full Bleed Color,

(C)

Cover Material - 80 Pound Gloss Paper,

(D)

Page Material - 70 Pound

(7)

The Course Materials will include perforated, color specific Board forms within the binding of the Course Materials that may be removed for use by the Licensees. The forms will include CPE evaluation forms, License and Endorsement examination forms and General Complaint forms.

(8)

All Course Materials must have the following characteristics:

(A)

Correct grammar, spelling and punctuation,

(B)

Appropriate illustrations and graphics to show concepts not easily explained in words, and

(C)

In depth and comprehensive presentation of subject matter which increases or supports the skills or competence of the Licensees.

(9)

The provider of Course materials must have legal ownership of or an appropriate license for the use of all copyrighted material included within the Course materials. Board approved Course materials will contain a prominently displayed approval statement in upper case, 10 point bold type or larger containing the following language: "THIS CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION COURSE MATERIAL HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS FOR USE IN THE (state years) CPE YEAR. BY ITS APPROVAL OF THIS COURSE MATERIAL, THE TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS DOES NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OF THE CONTENTS OF THE COURSE MATERIAL. FURTHER, THE TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS IS NOT MAKING ANY DETERMINATION THAT THE PARTY PUBLISHING THE COURSE MATERIALS HAS COMPLIED WITH ANY APPLICABLE COPYRIGHT AND OTHER LAWS IN PUBLISHING THE COURSE MATERIAL AND THE TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY THEREFOR. THE COURSE MATERIAL IS NOT BEING PUBLISHED BY NOR IS IT A PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS."

(10)

The provider of Course Materials will conduct instructor training in the use of Course Materials.

(11)

The provider of Course Materials will be required to have distribution facilities that will ensure prompt distribution of course materials, facsimile ordering and a statewide toll free telephone number for placing orders. The provider of Course Materials must ship any ordered material within ten (10) business days after the receipt of the order and payment for the course materials.

(12)

The Board shall annually approve only individuals, businesses or associations to provide Course Materials. Any individual, business or association who wishes to offer to provide Course Materials shall apply to the Board for approval using application forms prepared by the Board. In order to be approved, the application must satisfy the Board as to the ability of the individual, business or association to provide quality Course Materials as required in this Section and must include:

(A)

name and address of individual applicant,

(B)

names and addresses of all officers, directors, trustees or members of the governing board of any business or association applicant,

(C)

statement by individual applicant, and each officer, director, trustee or member of governing board as to whether he or she has ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor other than a minor traffic violation,

(D)

certificate of good standing issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts for business or association applicants,

(E)

fees to be charged for Course Materials,

(F)

taxpayer identification number,

(G)

method for quarterly reporting of Course Provider, Instructors, and Licensee evaluations of Course Materials to the Board,

(13)

The provider of Course Materials must sell Course Materials to all Course Providers and Licensees at the prices stated in the application.

(14)

The Board may refuse to accept any application for approval as a provider of Course Materials that is not complete. The Board may deny approval of an application for any of the following reasons:

(A)

failure to comply with the provisions of this section;

(B)

inadequate coverage of the materials required to be included in Course Materials; or

(C)

unsatisfactory evaluations of the Course Materials by Course Providers, Instructors, Licensees, or Board staff.

(15)

If an application is refused or disapproved, written notice detailing the basis of the decision shall be provided to the applicant.

(16)

A provider's authority to offer the Course Materials for which CPE credit is given expires on June 30 of the following calendar year after approval.

(17)

Course Materials to be approved for the 2000-2001 CPE year must be submitted in complete form (at least 20 copies) to the Board's office no later than May 15, 2000, for Board approval at its May, 2000 Board meeting. At least 50 copies each of all Course Materials that are approved at the Board's May, 2000 Board meeting shall be provided to the Board's office no later than July 1, 2000 at no cost to the Board.

(18)

All providers of Course Materials must meet the following time schedule each year for approval of Course Materials to be used for the 2001-2002 and following CPE years:

(A)

At least 20 copies each of the final draft version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than December 1 for Board approval at its January Board meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the January Board meeting and granted by the Board.

(B)

At least 20 copies each of the revised and completed version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than February 15 for Board approval at its March Board meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the March Board meeting and granted by the Board.

(C)

At least 50 copies each of all Course Materials that are approved at the Board's March Board meeting shall be provided to the Board's office no later than July 1 at no cost to the Board.

(19)

A provider's failure to comply with this section constitutes grounds for disciplinary action against the provider or for disapproval of future applications for approval as a provider of Course Materials.

(b)

Course Providers - The Board will annually approve only individuals, businesses or associations as Course Providers. Course Providers will offer classroom and correspondence instruction in the Course Materials used for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) required for renewal of all licenses issued under the Act. Board approval of Course Providers will be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Section. The following minimum criteria will be used by the Board in considering approval of Course Providers:

(1)

All Course Providers of CPE shall meet the certification requirements of the Central Education Agency or be exempted from the Central Education Agency certification requirements under Texas Education Code, Chapter 132, 132.002(a), (Texas Proprietary School Act) or be approved by the United States Department of Labor-Bureau of Apprenticeship Training Schools and/or Programs. No other exemptions will be permitted under §132.002(a)(7) of the Education Code.

(2)

CPE courses shall be presented in one of the following formats:

(A)

Six classroom hours presented on one day

(B)

Two sessions of three classroom hours each presented on two consecutive days or

(C)

An approved correspondence course.

(3)

Not less than three hours of the classroom course will be in the subjects of health protection, energy conservation and water conservation.

(4)

Presentations must be based primarily on the Course Materials and any other materials approved by the Board.

(5)

In addition to Course Materials, presentations may include videos, films, slides or other appropriate types of illustrations and graphic materials related to the Course Materials.

(6)

Course Providers shall limit the number of students for any CPE class to forty-five (45).

(7)

A Course Provider may not advertise or promote the sale of any goods, products or services between the opening and closing hours of any CPE class.

(8)

Each Course Provider shall furnish a uniquely numbered Certificate of Completion of CPE to each licensee, but only after the licensee has completed the CPE course. The Board will assign the unique numbers to be used on each Certificate to each Course Provider.

(9)

Each Course Provider shall, at its own expense and in a format approved by the Board, electronically transmit to the Board certification of each Licensee's completion of CPE requirements within forty-eight hours of completion.

(A)

The Board may provide training to the Course Provider in the method for electronic transmittal.

(B)

The Board may charge a fee to recover its costs for computer software and training in the use of the software to the Course Provider.

(10)

Each Course Provider shall be reviewed annually by the Board to ensure that classes have been provided equitably across the state of Texas.

(11)

Each Course Provider must notify the Board at least 30 days before conducting classes; the notice shall contain the time(s) and place(s) where the classes will occur.

(12)

Each Course Provider will perform self-monitoring and reporting as required by the Board.

(13)

Each Course Provider shall use only Course Instructors who have been approved by the Board. Each Course Provider shall annually submit to the Board's office a list of Course Instructors it employs and the instructors' credentials for approval.

(A)

Lists of Course Instructors to be approved for the 2000-2001 CPE year must be submitted no later than May 15, 2000 for approval by the Board at its May, 2000 meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the May Board meeting and granted by the Board.

(B)

Lists of Course Instructors to be approved for the 2001-2002 and later CPE years must be submitted each year no later than February 15 for approval by the Board at its March Board meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the March Board meeting and granted by the Board.

(14)

Prior to allowing Course Instructors to teach CPE, Course Providers must provide documentation to the Board showing the instructor's successful completion of Course Materials training.

(15)

Course Instructors must comply with subsection (c) of this section. Course Providers shall notify the Board within 10 days of any change of an instructor's employment status with the Course Provider.

(16)

Any individual, business or association who wishes to be a Course Provider shall apply to the Board for approval using application forms prepared by the Board. In order to be approved, the application must satisfy the Board as to the ability of the individual, business or association to provide quality instruction in the Course Materials as required in this Section and must include:

(A)

name and address of individual applicant,

(B)

names and addresses of all officers, directors, trustees or members of the governing board of any business or association applicant,

(C)

statement by individual applicant, and each officer, director, trustee or member of governing board as to whether he or she has ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor other than a minor traffic violation,

(D)

certificate of good standing issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts for business or association applicants,

(E)

taxpayer identification number,

(F)

facsimile number, statewide toll free telephone number, Internet web site or electronic mail address,

(G)

fees to be charged to Licensees for attending the course,

(H)

an example of a Licensee's Certificate of Completion of CPE,

(I)

CPE class scheduling plan,

(J)

plan for providing courses equitably across the state,

(K)

method for quarterly reporting compilations of Licensee evaluations of Course Provider and Course Instructors to the Board and

(L)

method for ensuring that only Licensees who meet one or more of the following requirements may receive CPE credit for taking an CPE correspondence course:

(i)

any Licensee that lives outside of the State of Texas, or

(ii)

lives in a county that does not have a city with a population in excess of 100,000, or

(iii)

who has an expired license that requires a CPE course that is no longer available in the classroom,

(M)

identification of the Course Materials which will be used by the Course Provider.

(17)

The Board may refuse to accept any application for approval as a Course Provider that is not complete. The Board may deny approval of an application for any of the following reasons:

(A)

failure to comply with the provisions of this section;

(B)

inadequate instruction of the materials required to be included in Course Materials; or

(C)

unsatisfactory evaluations of the Course Provider by Licensees or Board staff.

(18)

If an application is refused or disapproved, written notice detailing the basis of the decision shall be provided to the applicant.

(19)

A Course Provider's authority to offer instruction in the Course Materials for which CPE credit is given expires on June 30, of the following calendar year after approval.

(20)

Beginning with the 2000-2001 CPE year, the Board will establish the deadline in which applications must be submitted after the effective date of this rule. For the 2001-2002 and following CPE years, all Course Provider applications must be submitted to the Board office no later than December 1, each year for approval at the Board's January meeting, unless an extension is requested at or before the January Board meeting and granted by the Board.

(21)

The Board shall review Course Providers for quality in instruction. The Board shall also investigate and take appropriate action, up to and including revocation of authority to provide CPE, regarding complaints involving approved Course Providers.

(22)

A provider's failure to comply with this section constitutes grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including revocation of authority to provide CPE, against the provider or for denial of future applications for approval as a Course Provider.

(c)

Course Instructors - The Board will annually approve Course Instructors to provide the classroom instruction in the Course Materials used for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) required for renewal of Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber and Plumbing Inspector Licenses. Board approval of Course Instructors will be subject to all of the terms and conditions of this Section. An individual who wishes to be approved by the Board as a Course Instructor must apply to the Board through an approved Course Provider using an application form approved by the Board. The following minimum criteria will be used by the Board in considering approval of Course Instructors:

(1)

Instructors must be licensees of the Board, be employed by a Course Provider approved by the Board and attend and successfully complete a Course Instructor Certification Workshop each year conducted by the Board (the Board will charge a fee to recover its costs for conducting the Course Instructor Certification Workshop).

(2)

Instructors will be required to successfully complete a Board approved program of 160 clock hours which meets the following criteria. The Board will allow credit for approved courses.

(A)

40 hours to provide the Instructor with the basic educational techniques and instructional strategies necessary to plan and conduct effective training programs.

(B)

40 hours to provide the Instructor with the basic techniques and strategies necessary to analyze, select, develop, and organize instructional material for effective training programs.

(C)

40 hours to provide the Instructor with the basic principles, techniques, theories, and strategies to establish and maintain effective relationships with students, co-workers, and other personnel in the classroom, industry, and community.

(D)

40 hours to provide the Instructor with the basic principles, techniques, theories, and strategies to communicate effectively with the use of instructional media.

(E)

To maintain his/her status as an approved Course Instructor, the Instructor shall undergo one of the aforementioned training programs every 12 months such that the entire training (160 hours) is complete within four years.

(3)

A Course Instructor may not advertise or promote the sale of goods, products, or services between the opening and closing hours of any CPE class.

(4)

As a Course Instructor and Licensee of the Board, a Course Instructor must comply with the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules, including §367.2 of the Board Rules regarding Standards of Conduct. An Instructor has a responsibility to his students and employer to:

(A)

be well versed in and knowledgeable of the Course Materials,

(B)

maintain an orderly and professional classroom environment and

(C)

coordinate with the Course Provider to develop an appropriate method for handling disorderly and disruptive students. A Course Instructor shall report to the Course Provider and the Board, any non- responsive and disruptive student who attends a CPE course. The Board may deny CPE credit to any such student and require, at the students expense, successful completion of an additional CPE course to receive credit.

(5)

The Board shall review Course Instructors for quality of instruction. The Board shall also respond to complaints regarding Course Instructors.

(6)

A Course Instructor's failure to comply with this section constitutes grounds for disciplinary action against the Instructor or for disapproval of future applications for approval as a Course Instructor.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 3, 2000.

TRD-200001674

Robert L. Maxwell

Chief Investigator/Field Services

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 458-2145, ext. 222


Part 25.
STRUCTURAL PEST CONTROL BOARD

Chapter 593. LICENSES

22 TAC §593.7

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §593.7, concerning fees. The amendment lowers the cost of submittal of continuing education courses for approval.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering this rule. There will be no estimated additional cost or estimated reduction in cost to state and local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect, however, there is an estimated increase in revenue of $1,225.00 to state government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect. The cost of compliance with the rule for small businesses will be up to $120 a year. There will be no cost comparison per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or larger businesses affected by the rule.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the increased and continued offering to the structural pest control industry of more and better continuing education courses. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Vernon's Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: Rule Number Statute, Article or Code §593.7 Article 135b-6 593 Licenses.

§593.7.Fees.

(a)

Applicants, licensees and continuing education providers will be charged the following fees:

(1)

$144 for an original or renewal of business license;

(2)

$72 for an original or renewal of a certified applicators license;

(3)

$45 for an original or renewal of a technician license;

(4)

$30 for duplicate business license, certified applicator license or technician license when the original has been lost or destroyed;

(5)

$30 for reissuing a business license, certified applicators license or technician license due to a name change in the license;

(6)

$40 for administering exams in each category;

(7)

$37.50 for late renewal fee for up to thirty (30) days late;

(8)

$75 for late renewal fee for thirty one (31)-sixty (60) days late;

(9)

$40 for continuing education course. [ $75 for continuing education course. ]

(b)

The following fees are based on increments of six (6) months.

(1)

Business License Fees

(A)

Issued/Renewed for 1-6 months $72.00

(B)

Issued/Renewed for 7-12 months $144.00

(C)

Issued/Renewed for 13-18 months $216.00

(2)

Certified Applicator License Fees

(A)

Issued/Renewed for 1-6 months $36.00

(B)

Issued/Renewed for 7-12 months $72.00

(C)

Issued/Renewed for 13-18 months $108.00

(3)

Technician License Fees

(A)

Issued/Renewed for 1-6 months $22.50

(B)

Issued/Renewed for 7-12 months $45.00

(C)

Issued/Renewed for 13-18 months $67.50

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001561

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


Chapter 595. COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT

22 TAC §595.1

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.1, concerning license display. The amendment clarifies where all structural pest control licenses should be displayed.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect. There will be no cost comparison based on cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or larger businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be a better understanding by licensee and making compliance and enforcement efforts easier. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code §595.1 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement.

§595.1.License Display.

(a)

All structural pest control licenses shall be displayed in a conspicuous place at [ of ] the business of the license holder. In the case of a nonresident license holder, the license shall be displayed in a conspicuous place at [ of ] the residence or at the place of business of the license holder's resident agent. All structural pest control licenses shall be presented for visual inspection upon request of a board investigator.

(b)

The business license number shall be prominently displayed on all vehicles used in the company business, but shall not be required on unmarked management vehicles. Vehicles of a company may have more than one license number; provided, however, notice is made in writing to the board and the board approves the license number used in such cases. The numbers and letters must be permanently affixed to the vehicle in a prominent place on each front fender and/or front door panel in two-inch letters in a color which would contrast to the background color of the truck or vehicle and shall be designated as: Texas Pest Control License (number). This may be abbreviated to Texas PCL (number) or TPCL (number). Any numbers or letters that adhere to vehicle by way of magnetic device or magnets are not considered to be permanently affixed.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001562

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.2

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.2 concerning employee registration. The amendment proposes clerical changes and deletes technician and apprentice and replaces language with licensees.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government. There is no cost comparison of cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or large businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the better understanding or the rule by licensees. This will lead to more compliance and fewer enforcement actions. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.2 Article 13b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.2.Employee Registration.

(a)

It shall be the duty of the business licensee or certified noncommercial applicator to inform the Board in writing of the employment and termination of all licensees. [ technicians and apprentices. ]

(b)

Notice of employment shall be furnished within ten days of the date of employment and shall include the full name and home address of the technician or apprentice, the date of employment, and, if applicable, the branch office at which he will be employed, and other information as may be required. This notice shall be provided on a form as prescribed by the Structural Pest Control Board.

(c)

When employing a technician, the business licensee or certified noncommercial applicator shall obtain from the Board a license for such technician. Any registration of license fees paid for technicians and apprentices shall not be refundable or transferred to another technician or apprentice.

(d)

Notice of termination shall include the employee name, license number and date of termination, and be provided to the Structural Pest Control Board within thirty (30) days of the date of termination.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001563

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.3

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.3, concerning employee supervision. This amendment designates the "responsible certified applicator" as the individual to supervise use of pesticides and requires the certified applicator to be physically present to give personal instructions to apprentices and technicians three days a week. The amendment establishes that employees may not schedule or perform work without instructions from certified applicator.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government. There will be no cost comparison for cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or larger businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be better trained and knowledgeable personnel. This benefit will be more protection for the consumer and the public at large. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.3 Article 135b-6 597.1(19) Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.3.Employee Supervision.

(a)

The responsible certified applicator is responsible to supervise the use of pesticides by [ uncertified ] employees of a pest control business.

(b)

In order to provide adequate supervision, a [ the ] certified applicator must [ have personal contact ] be physically present to give personal instructions to an apprentice at least three days a [ per ] week with the technician or apprentices being supervised. The technician or apprentice must reside within the normally accepted commuting area of the licensed business office or work location and must personally report to a certified applicator at least three days a [ per ] week to receive instructions.

(c)

[ Uncertified employees ] Employees may not schedule and perform pest control work unless [ verifiable ] instructions for the type of work to be done are obtained from a [ the ] certified applicator.

(d)

Apprentices shall not perform pest control services without physical supervision until they have completed all classroom training, on-the-job training required and verified such completion, in their records.

(e)

The business license holder or certified noncommercial applicator is responsible for actions of employees when they are performing pest control services.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001564

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.4

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.4, concerning pest control use records. The amendment adds the requirement that application of solution or amount of concentrate of pesticide used and target pest be specified, and the records be made available to Board personnel upon request.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There is no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect. There will be no cost comparison for cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales to small or larger businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be easier enforcement of use records violations and more complete and detailed records being maintained by pest control businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.4 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.4.Pest Control Use Records.

The business licensee or, in the case of the certified noncommercial applicator, the applicator shall keep and maintain a record of all uses of pesticides and pest control devices for a period of two years. Said records will be kept on the premise of the business licensee or, in the case of a certified noncommercial applicator, the employer's premises. The records will include, but are not limited to, routine operational data, which include[ the ] name and address of the customer, [ the ] name of pesticides or devices used, [ the ] amounts of pesticides or devices used, [ the percent in solution of ] application of solution or amount of concentrate of pesticides used, [ the ] purpose for which the pesticides or devices were used or target pest, [ the ] date the pesticides or devices were used, and the service address where the pesticides or devices were used. These records shall be made available to the Board [ board ] or its authorized agents in accordance with the Structural Pest Control Act, as amended.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001565

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.5

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.5, concerning contracts. The amendment proposes clerical changes without changing the body of the regulation.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect. There will be no cost comparison of cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or larger businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be a more informed consumer providing more protection for the public at large.

There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.5 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.5.Contracts.

(a)

Each written contract, warranty, service agreement, termite disclosure document or guarantee of a business regulated by the Structural Pest Control Board must contain the name, address and telephone number of the Board on the face of the document. It must also include the business name, location address, telephone number and the statement "Licensed and regulated under the Structural Pest Control Act."

(b)

The business name, telephone number and location address shall be on the face of any invoice [ left with the customer at the time of service ].

(c)

The requirement [ requirements ] in subsection (a) and (b) of this section shall be legible and printing shall be in at least seven-point type.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001566

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.6

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.6, concerning pest control sign. The amendment deletes waiver of the pre-notification requirement if the consumer or certified applicator sign a statement attesting that an emergency exists. The amendment also renumbers existing sections, and adds "Re-entry" to the Notice of Pest Control Treatment sign.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five years the rule will be in effect. There is no cost of compliance for cost per employee, cost per hour of labor, or cost per $100 of sales for small or larger businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the better understanding of the rule by licensees and better application and enforcement of the rule for the benefit of the public at large. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.6 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.6.Pest Control Sign.

(a)

A pest control sign must be provided by the licensee to the owner or manager at least 48 hours prior to a planned indoor treatment at a residential rental property with five or more rental units.

(b)

A pest control sign must be provided by the licensee to the employer or building manager at least 48 hours prior to a planned indoor treatment at a workplace. A workplace is defined as any nonresidence with three or more full-time paid employees which is treated by a licensed business or a certified noncommercial applicator.

(c)

A pest control sign must be provided by the licensee to the chief administrator or building manager at least 48 hours prior to a planned indoor treatment at a hospital, nursing home, hotel, motel, lodge, warehouse, food-processing establishment, school or educational institution, or day-care center.

[ (d)

The pre-notification provisions of subsections (a)-(c) of this section are waived if the customer and certified applicator sign a statement attesting to the fact that an emergency exists that requires immediate treatment. If the customer is not available to sign a statement at the time of treatment, the customer's name and telephone number shall be noted in the pest control use records. The statement must be kept on file with the pest control use records at the business license location. Certified noncommercial applicators may attest to the emergency by signing a statement attesting to the emergency an must keep the statement on file with the pest control use records at their place of employment. An emergency is defined as an imminent hazard to health or property or an imminent infestation and emergency treatment is limited to the localized area of the emergency. ]

(d)

[ (e) ] An indoor treatment includes a perimeter treatment if the primary purpose of the treatment is to treat the interior of the structure.

(e)

[ (f) ] A person may not be considered in violation of this section if the space to be treated is vacant, unused and unoccupied at the time of treatment, or if extenuating circumstances require an unplanned treatment.

(f)

[ (g) ] Each pest control sign must be at least 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches in size and must contain the following information with the first line in a minimum of 24-point type (one-fourth inch) and all remaining lines in a minimum of 12-point type (one-eighth inch). The addition of advertising and logos to the Notice of Pest Control Treatment is permissible to the extent that such advertising does not interfere with the purpose of public notification of a pest control treatment. A standard sign in Spanish is available from the Board upon request. The sign should appear in the following format:

Figure: 22 TAC §595.6 (f) [ (g) ]

(g)

[ (h) ] In the space marked "For more information call or contact," the telephone number where information on the pesticide(s) used may be obtained shall be listed, such as the apartment manager, building manager, or pest control operator.

(h)

[ (i) ] In the space marked "phone number of hotline for pesticide information," the following wording shall be used: National Pesticide Telecommunications Network 1-800-858-7378.

(i)

[ (j) ] If a workplace has its own pesticide information center, the workplace center telephone number may be listed rather than the information in subsection (h) [ (i) ] of this section.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001567

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.7

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.7, concerning consumer information sheets. The amendment specifies where and when consumer information sheet should be left at residential and rental properties, posting of signs for indoor treatments in the workplace, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, day care centers, etc., requirements for school personnel notifying parents of applications, states the official SPCB Consumer Information Sheet be used and that copies may be obtained from the Board in English as well as Spanish.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There is no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost, or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect. There will be no cost of compliance with the rule for small businesses. There will be no cost comparison for cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or large businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be a better informed consumer resulting in more protection of the public at large.

There is no anticipated cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.7 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.7.Consumer Information Sheet.

(a)

For an indoor treatment at a private residence that is not a rental property the certified applicator or technician shall give the pest control information sheet to the owner of the residence before each treatment begins, or, if the owner is not available at the time treatment begins, leave the sheet in a conspicuous place in the residence. [ For indoor treatments, the Board-approved Consumer Information Sheet, a statement listing the pesticide(s) used and upon request a label for any pesticide(s) used shall be distributed by the licensee as follows: ]

[ (1)

to owners of private residences before or at the time of treatment; ]

[ (2)

to each unit of residential rental properties of less than five units at the time of the treatment; ]

[ (3)

to the owner or manager of residential rental properties with five or more units at least 48 hours prior to a planned treatment;]

[ (4)

to employers, managers, or administrators of work places, hospitals, nursing homes, hotels, motels, lodges, warehouses, food-processing establishments, school or educational institutions, or day-care centers at least 48 hours prior to a planned treatment. A work place is defined as any non-residence with three or more full-time paid employees which is treated by a licensed business or a certified noncommercial applicator. ]

(b)

For indoor treatment at a residential rental property with less than five rental units, including a single family, duplex, triplex or fourplex rental property, the certified applicator or technician shall leave the pest control information sheet in the residence at the time of each treatment. [ For outdoor treatments, the Board-approved Consumer Information Sheet, a statement listing the pesticide(s) used, and upon request a label for each pesticide used shall be distributed by the licensee as follows: ]

[ (1)

to owners of private residences before the treatment begins; ]

[ (2)

to each unit of a residential rental property with fewer than five units at the time of treatment. ]

(c)

For an indoor treatment at a residential rental property with five or more rental units, the certified applicator or technician shall supply the pest control information sheet to the owner or manager of the complex. The certified applicator or technician shall also supply the owner or manager with a pest control sign. The owner or manager or an employee or agent of the owner or manager, other than the certified applicator or technician, shall notify residents who live in the direct or adjacent area of the treatment by: [ The Official Structural Pest Control Board Consumer Information Sheet must be used. Copies of the Consumer Information Sheet are available from the Board in English and Spanish and shall read as follows: ]

(1)

posting the sign in an area of common access at least 48 hours before each planned treatment; or

(2)

distributing the information sheet at least 48 hours before each planned treatment by leaving the sheet on the front door of each unit or in a conspicuous place inside each unit.

(d)

For an indoor treatment at a workplace, the certified applicator or technician shall supply the pest control information sheet and a pest control sign to the employer or the building manager. The employer or the building manager or an employee or agent of the owner or manager, other than the certified applicator or technician, shall notify the individuals who work at the workplace of the date of the planned treatment by:

(1)

posting the sign in an area of common access that the individuals are likely to check on a regular basis at least 48 hours before each planned treatment; and

(2)

providing the information sheet to any individual working in the building on request of the individual if the request is made during normal business hours.

(e)

For an indoor treatment at a building that is a hospital, nursing home, hotel, motel, lodge, warehouse, food-processing establishment, school or educational institution, or a day-care center, the certified applicator or technician shall supply the pest control information sheet and a pest control sign to the chief administrator or building manager. The chief administrator or building manager shall notify the individuals who work in the building of the treatment by:

(1)

posting the sign in an area of common access that the individuals are likely to check on a regular basis at least 48 hours before each planned treatment; and

(2)

providing the information sheet to any individual working in the building on request of the individual.

(f)

Personnel at a school or educational institution or a day-care center are required to inform the parents, guardians, or managing conservators of the children attending the school or day-care center, at the time the child is registered, that;

(1)

the school, institution, or center periodically applies pesticides indoors; and

(2)

information on the application of the pesticides is available at the request of the parents, guardians, or managing conservators.

(g)

For the purpose of this section, treatment is an indoor treatment even though the treatment may include a perimeter treatment of the building if the primary purpose of the treatment is to treat the inside of the building.

(h)

The official Structural Pest Control Board Consumer Information Sheet must be used. Copies of the Consumer Information Sheet are available from the Board in English and Spanish and shall read as follows:

Figure: 22 TAC §595.7 (h) [ (c) ]

(i)

[ (d) ] The pre-notification requirements of subsections (c) [ (a)(3) ] and (d) [ (4) ] are waived if the customer and certified applicator sign a statement attesting to the fact that an emergency exists which requires immediate treatment. If such an emergency exists, the Consumer Information Sheet should be provided by the licensee at the time of treatment. The statement must be kept on file with the pest control use records at the business license location. Certified noncommercial applicators may attest to an emergency by signing a statement attesting to the emergency and must keep the statement on file with the pest control use records at their place of employment. If the customer is not available to sign a statement at the time of treatment, the customer's name and telephone number shall be noted in the pest control use records. An emergency is defined as a imminent hazard to health or property or an imminent infestation and emergency treatment is limited to the localized area of the emergency.

(j)

[ (e) ] Licensees holding the lawn and ornamental or weed categories may use the following text in place of that required in subsection (h) [ (c) ] of this section:

Figure: 22 TAC §595.7 (j) [ (e) ]

(k)

[ (f) ] Any customer may waive receipt of the Consumer Information Sheet for multiple treatments by signing or initialing below the following written statement: "I have received one copy of the Consumer Information Sheet for all treatments to be provided as a part of this pest control service agreement. I may receive additional copies at any time upon request to the service provider, and will receive any updates to the Consumer Information Sheet which may occur." A pest control operator must keep a copy of this statement in the pest control use records for each customer covered by the agreement.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001568

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.8

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.8, concerning responsibilities of unlicensed persons for posting and notification. The amendment clarifies that the statement attesting to need for emergency treatment must be kept in the pest control use records at business location and deletes language if extenuating circumstances require unplanned treatment.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect. There will be no cost of compliance with the rule for small businesses. There will be no cost comparison for cost per employee, cost per hour of labor or cost per $100 of sales for small or larger businesses.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the clarification of responsibility if properly posted pest control sign is removed by an unauthorized individual. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.8 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.8.Responsibilities of Unlicensed Persons for Posting and Notification.

(a)

Owners or managers of residential rental properties with five or more units shall either:

(1)

post a pest control sign at least 48 hours before the planned treatment in an area of common access; or

(2)

distribute the consumer information sheet to each unit planned to be treated and each unit adjacent to those planned to be treated at least 48 hours before the planned time of treatment. Adjacent means having a common wall, ceiling, or floor. Area of common access means a common area that an individual is likely to check on a regular basis, such as building entranceway, mailboxes, laundry rooms, beverage machines, building bulletin boards, etc.

(b)

Employers, building managers, and chief administrators of workplaces, hospitals, nursing homes, hotels, motels, lodges, warehouses, food-processing establishments, school or educational institutions, and day-care centers shall post a pest control sign in an area of common access at least 48 hours prior to each planned treatment and provide a Consumer Information Sheet to any individual working in the building at the request of that individual. Area of common access means a common area that an individual is likely to check on a regular basis, such as building entranceway, mailboxes, laundry rooms, beverage machines, building bulletin boards, etc.

(c)

Chief administrators of school or educational institutions and day-care centers shall notify the parents or guardians of children attending the facility in writing that pesticides are periodically applied indoors and that information on the times and types of applications is available upon request. Such notification must be made at the time of the child's registration.

(d)

The 48 hour pre-notification requirements of subsections (a) and (b) [ of this section ] may be waived if an emergency exists and the customer and certified applicator sign a statement attesting to the fact that an emergency exists that requires immediate treatment. The statement must be kept on file with the pest control use records [ at the business ] at the business license location. If the customer is not available to sign a statement at the time of treatment, the customer's name and telephone number shall be noted in the pest control use records. Certified noncommercial applicators may attest to an emergency by signing a statement attesting to the emergency and must keep the statement on file with the pest control use records at their place of employment. An emergency is defined as an imminent hazard to health or property or an imminent infestation and emergency treatment is limited to the localized area of the emergency.

(e)

A person may not be considered in violation of this section if a pest sign is removed by an unauthorized person or if the space to be treated is vacant, unused and unoccupied at the time of treatment [ or if extenuating circumstances require an unplanned treatment ].

(f)

A person found in violation of this section is subject to the administrative penalty provisions of the Structural Pest Control Act, §10B.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001569

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.,

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.10

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.10, concerning inspections. The proposal is making clerical changes without altering the body of the regulation.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue for state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.10 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.10.Inspections.

(a)

Each licensed pest control business shall be inspected at least one time in any two-year period. Businesses showing a lack of compliance with Board law or rules may be inspected more frequently. The Executive Director [ executive director ] may waive this requirement due to emergency. An emergency in this section is defined as a shortage of staff availability due to complaint investigations, personnel shortages, or budgetary constraints.

(b)

If the Board [ board ] or the Executive Director [ executive director ] determines that a misapplication of pesticides has occurred on the premises of a consumer, the consumer and the business license holder or applicator shall be notified within 20 calendar days of the making of this determination. Records of any health injuries diagnosed by a licensed physician and property damage caused by any misapplication by a licensee which is found by the Board shall be kept in a form reportable to the Texas Department of Health or any institution of higher education upon their request.

(c)

Procedures for the conduct of an investigation shall be contained in the Texas Structural Pest Control Board investigations Manual, which shall contain all requirements of the Structural Pest Control Act, §4C(b).

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001570

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.11

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.11, concerning schools. The proposal makes clerical changes, specifies proposal specifications that the IPM Coordinator shall oversee, requires that current pesticide labels and Material Safety Data Sheets be kept by the IPM Coordinator. The proposal also clarifies maintenance of pesticide application records and incidental use reports, and states pest control services must be consistent with IPM policies while deleting language regarding effective date of this regulation.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be a more complete and detailed maintaining of records for the school districts by the IPM Coordinator and a better enforcement of the IPM principles which will make for a safer school environment for the school children of the State of Texas.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.11 Article 135b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.11.Schools.

(a)

Pesticide applications shall not be made within a school building if such an application will expose students to unacceptable levels of pesticides.

(1)

Insect and rodent baits in tamper-resistant containers or bait stations that are on the Green List, or non-containerized baits or gels that are on the Green List, as well as botanical insecticides which are on the Green List [ green list ] may be applied at any time if students are not present in the room at the time the treatment is occurring. These products may be applied to an open area or multi-purpose room if the area within ten (10) feet of the location is secured and no students are present within the secured area during the time of application.

(2)

All other Green List products and Yellow List products may be applied to a room only if students are not expected to be present in the room for the next twelve 12 hours, or the specified re-entry on the pesticide label, whichever is longer.

(3)

Red List products may be applied to a building only if students are not expected to be present in the building for the next twelve 12 hours, or the specified re-entry on the pesticide label, whichever is longer.

(b)

Pesticide applications shall not be made to outdoor school grounds if such an application will expose students to physical drift of pesticide spray particles or unacceptable levels of pesticides.

(1)

Green List products may be applied if students are not expected to be present within ten (10) feet of the application site at the time of application.

(2)

Yellow List products may be applied if students are not expected to be present within ten 10 feet of the application site for the next twelve 12 hours, and if the treated area is clearly marked to discourage entry, or secured by means of a fence or similar barrier.

(3)

Red List products may be applied if students are not expected to be present within fifty (50) feet of the application site for the next twelve (12) hours, and if the treated area is clearly marked to discourage entry, or secured by means of a fence or similar barrier. Red List products may be applied only if there are not wind conditions that would disperse the chemical beyond to marked or secured zone.

(c)

Emergency treatments will be permitted in the localized area of infestation when there is an imminent threat to health or property or an infestation is imminent. Records of the reasons for emergency treatments shall be kept in the pest control use records of the business or certified noncommercial applicator performing the treatment.

(d)

Each school district shall develop a written pest management policy for all structural pest control activities conducted on school property based on the most current Structural Pest Control IPM document. The pest management policy must be adopted by the school Board [ board ] and kept on file by the district superintendent and IPM Coordinator. The policy shall be based on generally accepted tenets of integrated pest management, as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency. Such tenets include, but are not limited to:

(1)

strategies that rely on the best combination of pest management tactics that are compatible with human health and environmental protection;

(2)

proper identification of pest problems;

(3)

monitoring programs to determine when pests are present or when pest problems are severe enough to justify corrective action;

(4)

use of non-chemical management strategies whenever practical; and

(5)

preferential use of least-toxic chemical controls when pesticides are needed.

(e)

Each school district shall designate IPM Coordinator(s) [ on or before September 1, 1995 ]. The district is responsible for the IPM Coordinator(s) compliance with Structural Pest Control Board regulations and school district policy. The person(s) so designated shall attend a Structural Pest Control Board approved IPM Coordinator training course within twelve (12) months of designation as IPM Coordinator. The IPM Coordinator(s) shall oversee and be responsible for:

(1)

assisting in the coordination of pest management personnel, ensuring that all school employees who perform pest control have the necessary training, are equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment, and have the necessary licenses for their pest management responsibilities;

(2)

maintaining a prioritized list of needed structural and landscape improvements;

(3)

for school districts that [ opt to ] conduct some or all pest management work through independent contractors, working with district administrators to ensure that pest control proposal [ contract bid ] specifications are compatible with IPM principles, and that pest control contractors work under the guidelines of the district's IPM policy;

(4)

ensuring that all pesticides used on school district property are in compliance with the school district's policies and keep current pesticide labels, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) ;

(5)

authorizing and/or reviewing least hazardous, effective emergency treatments with the approval of the certified applicator as provided for under §§595.6(d), 595.7(d), 595.8(d) and this section of the Structural Pest Control Board regulation; [ of this title (relating to Compliance and Enforcement) and this section of the Structural Pest Control Board regulations; ]

(6)

handling requests and inquiries relating to pest problems, and maintain records of any pesticide related complaints;

(7)

ensure that files are maintained regarding [ maintaining files of ] pesticide application records, and incidental use reports are per Sec. 595.17 Incidental Use For Schools. [ pesticide labels, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) ];

(8)

informing school district administrators and other personnel about IPM requirements (e.g., training requirements, pre-notification and posting requirements, sanitation, and pesticide storage); and

(9)

maintaining a copy of the school's IPM policy.

(f)

Each school district shall employ or contract with a certified applicator, who may, if an employee, also be the IPM Coordinator. The certified applicator shall:

(1)

oversee day to day pest management needs of the district;

(2)

provide written approval/justification of use of products on the Yellow List;

(3)

handle and forward records of any complaints relating to pest problems, IPM activities, or pesticides to the IPM Coordinator;

(4)

ensure that proper pesticide application records are maintained;

(5)

participate in IPM training courses approved for school IPM personnel by the SPCB;

(6)

consult with the IPM Coordinator concerning use of products not on the Green or Yellow List [ green or yellow list ];

(7)

authorize emergency treatments as provided for in subsection (e)(5) of this section.

(g)

Licensed technicians must obtain written approval from the certified applicator to apply Yellow or Red List products. [ yellow or red list products. ]

(h)

Pesticides approved for use on school property must be mixed outside student occupied areas of the buildings and are classified as follows:

(1)

Green List. All products must be one of the following: inorganic pesticides (i.e., boric acid, disodium octoborate tetrahydrate, silica gels, diatomaceous earth); insect growth regulators; insect and rodent baits in tamper-resistant containers or for crack and crevice placement only; microbe-based insecticides; botanical insecticides (not including synthetic pyrethroids) containing not more than 5.0% synergists; biological (living) control agents. Green List products may be used at the discretion of the licensee.

(2)

Yellow List Products. All EPA III and IV pesticides (i.e., products carrying a CAUTION signal word) not included in the Green List, with the exception of restricted-use or state-limited-use pesticides as defined under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and/or the Texas Agricultural Code. Use of Yellow List products shall require written approval from the certified applicator [ Certified Applicator ]. A copy of the approval must be sent to the IPM Coordinator. Yellow List approvals shall have a duration of no longer than six (6) months or six (6) applications per site, whichever occurs first.

(3)

Red List. All Category I and II pesticides (i.e., products carrying a WARNING or DANGER signal word), not included in the Green List or restricted use pesticides, or state- limited-use pesticides as defined under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and/or the Texas Agricultural Code. Use of Red List products requires prior written approval from the certified applicator [ Certified Applicator ] and the IPM Coordinator. A copy of the approval must be kept in a separate file in the pest control use records for the school and clearly marked as Red List Approvals. Red List Approvals [ approvals ] shall have a duration no longer than three (3) months or three (3) applications per site, whichever is first.

(i)

Written approvals for use of Yellow and Red List [ yellow and red list ] products shall be made on a form developed by the Structural Pest Control Board. The approvals shall include a description of the problem and justification for use of the Yellow and Red List [ yellow and red list ] products. Approvals shall be kept by the IPM Coordinator of the district for a minimum of two years.

(j)

All [ contracts for ] pest control services [ executed on or after the effective date of this regulation ] must be consistent with the school district's written pest management policy.

(k)

Any person found not in compliance with the Act or this section is subject to administrative penalties under §10B. Such persons may include the school district or certified commercial applicator.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001571

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.13

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes amendments to §595.13, concerning advertising. The proposal deletes Structural Pest Control Board from disclaimers or claims which negate or detract from labeling statements on product label in the use of false, misleading or deceptive advertising.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost, or estimated loss or increase in revenue for state of local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be clarification of disclaimers or claims which negate or detract from labeling statements on product label. This will also result in better enforcement and more protection for the general public. There will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex.Rev.Civ.Stat.Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule. Rule Number Statute, Article or Code 595.13 Article 13b-6 595 Compliance and Enforcement

§595.13.Advertising.

A licensee shall not use false, misleading or deceptive advertising. Examples of statements or representations which constitute false, misleading or deceptive advertising include the following:

(1)

a false or misleading statement concerning the composition of products used;

(2)

a false or misleading statement concerning the effectiveness of a product as a pesticide or device;

(3)

a false or misleading statement about the value of the product for purposes other than as a pesticide or device;

(4)

a false or misleading comparison with other pesticides;

(5)

a statement directly or indirectly implying that a pesticide or device is recommended or endorsed by any agency of the state or federal government, such as "EPA Registered" or "EPA Approved";

(6)

a true statement used in such a way as to give a false or misleading impression to the consumer;

(7)

disclaimers or claims which negate or detract [ Structural Pest Control Board ] from labeling statements on the product label;

(8)

claims as to the safety of a pesticide or its ingredients, including statements such as "free from risk or harm", "safe", "non-injurious", "harmless", or "non-toxic to humans and pets", with or without such a qualifying phrase as "when used as directed";

(9)

claims that the pesticides and other substances the licensee applies, the application of such pesticides, or any other use of them are comparatively safe or free from risk or harm;

(10)

claims that the pesticides and other substances the licensee applies, the applications of such pesticides, or any other use of them, are "environmentally friendly", "environmentally sound", environmentally aware", environmentally responsible", pollution approved", "contain all natural ingredients", "organic", or are "among the least toxic chemicals known"; and

(11)

claims regarding its goods and services for which the licensee does not have substantiation at the time such claim is made.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001572

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.14

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §595.14 concerning Reduced Impact Pest Control Service. The amendment proposes clerical changes, states on Consumer Information Sheet (CIS) for Reduced Impact that regular inspection of lawn areas for early detection of pest presence is essential to IPM.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost, or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis has also determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be better understanding of the rule by consumers, service providers and the public at large, and better application of enforcement of the rule for the benefit of the consumer and the public at large. There will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-6 is affected by this amendment.

§595.14.Reduced Impact Pest Control Service.

(a)

a business may qualify to use the Reduced Impact Pest Control Services designation by having all certified applicators who will be supervising the service attend a continuing education course approved for Reduced Impact Service. All licensed employees will have verifiable training from a certified applicator who has attended the course and is approved to provide such training.

(b)

The goal of Reduced Impact Pest Control Services is to effectively control pests and to provide customer satisfaction while seeking to minimize individual's exposure to chemical pesticides through the application of Integrated Pest Management principles.

(c)

A business using the Reduced Impact Pest Control Service designation shall meet the following requirements:

(1)

The Board-approved Consumer Information Sheet must be used and it must be provided at the time of inspection.

(2)

An inspection shall be performed prior to any pest control treatment. The inspection report must include:

(A)

A description of all areas inspected.

(B)

A description of conditions conducive to infestation and/or evidence of active infestation with recommendations for nonchemical solutions to those problems.

(C)

A description of any treatment performed and the reason for the treatment recommendations and reasons for chemical application must be consistent with the goal of Reduced Impact Pest Control Services. Customer request is an appropriate reason, provided the inspection report informs the customer of practical and feasible alternatives which would result in less exposure to chemical pesticides. For each application recommended, specify whether a target pest is actually present or the application is a preventative one.

(3)

The customer must provide, in writing in the contract, authorization for treatment and the names of any specific pesticides which are not to be used or if no pesticides are to be used in providing service. This must be done prior to the initiation of service. This information shall be kept in the pest control use records.

(4)

A copy of the written inspection report must be provided at the time of each service and a copy must be kept in the pest control use records.

(d)

Notwithstanding §595.13 of this title (relating to Advertising), the following words may be used in a advertisement for services by a business authorized to provide Reduced Impact Service: Reduced Impact Service; Reduced Impact Methods; Reduced Impact Techniques; Reduced Risk Methods; Reduced Hazards; Reduced Exposure; Reduced Impact Specialist; Environmentally Sensitive Services; Environmentally Sensitive Programs; Environmentally Friendly; Environmentally Sound; Environmentally Aware; Environmentally Responsible or any other words descriptive of the service which are not specifically listed as prohibited in §595.13 and which can be substituted by the business's adherence to the goals of Reduced Impact Service.

(e)

A business licensee and employees of a business licensee who are found to be in violation of any provisions of this section may, in addition to all other applicable sanctions, lose the Reduced Impact authorization held by the business licensee.

(f)

Licensees holding the Reduced Impact authorization and licensed in the lawn and ornamental or weed categories may use the following text in place of that required in §595.7 [ of this title (relating to Consumer Information Sheet) ].

Figure: 22 TAC §595.14(f)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001573

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.15

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §595.15 concerning Incidental Use Situation Fact Sheet. The proposal removes school district employees from this provision. Furthermore, school district employees are now required to be licensed for any pest control application.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis has also determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the making of a safer environment for Texas school children and the more judicious use of pesticides in the schools. There is no anticipated economical cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statues Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-6 is affected by this amendment.

§595.15.Incidental Use Situation Fact Sheet.

(a)

The Structural Pest Control Board Incidental Use Fact Sheet must contain the following text: "This fact sheet must be distributed to all city, county, and state employees who apply general use pesticides and are not licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture and do not have a Structural Pest Control Board Non-Commercial Applicator's or Technician License. [ School District employees are not subject to this provision and are required to be licensed for any pesticide application. ] The fact sheet and instruction shall be provided upon initial employment and thereafter shall be available as needed. These general use pesticides include insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and rodenticides and involve applications made both inside and outside of structures. Incidental Use is not intended for long terms or extensive pest control measures. Where long term pest control is required, a trained, licensed person is to make the applications. Incidental Use is defined as "A pesticide application on an occasional, isolated, site-specific basis that is incidental to the primary duties of an employee and involves the use of general use pesticides after instruction as provided by rules adopted by the Structural Pest Control Board". Examples of Incidental Use Situations are treating fire ants in a transformer box, or treating of ants by a janitor or clerical employee in a break area. Incidental is defined as site-specific and incidental to the employee's primary duties. If it is a part of the employee's primary duty to make applications of pesticides, that employee is required, by law, to obtain either a Structural Pest Control Board License or Texas Department of Agriculture License, depending on the location and/or type of application. In all cases of incidental use, the employee should use the least hazardous, effective method of controlling pests. If chemicals are to be utilized, they must be applied in strict accordance with manufacturer labels of "General Use" products being used. Applications made inconsistent with the [ Structural Pest Control Board Law and Regulations, or applications made inconsistent with the ] label requirements of the general use product may result in penalties being assessed against the individual and/or the Certified Non-Commercial Applicator or Technician responsible. "Incidental Use Situation" applications of pesticides are regulated by the Structural Pest Control Board. If you have any questions or comments, contact the Board at (512) 451-7200; written inquiries may be addressed to the Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite [ # ]100LW, Austin, Texas 78723." Copies are available from the Structural Pest Control Board.

(b)

The incidental use fact sheet shall be provided during pesticide instruction to each employee of the state or a political subdivision of the state other than a school district whose primary duty is not pest control, and whose work may include tasks subject to the incidental use exception.

(c)

Each governmental unit is responsible for distributing the fact sheet to the designated employees.

(d)

Primary duty is defined as a job duty that is part of a written job description or is a regularly assigned task of the employee.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001574

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.17

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §595.17 concerning Incidental Use For Schools. The amendment defines incidental use, and finds that incidental use is for emergency situations where safety of students or workers is at risk. Furthermore, the rule now designates the certified applicator or technician as responsible in the event of pesticide misapplication and states penalties may be assessed against the individual, adds IPM Coordinator keep records of all training conducted annually and states IPM Coordinator must keep pesticide use records for all incidental use applications including the reason for application and the justification for emergency for a period of two years.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue for state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the more judicious use of pesticides in the schools which will result in a safer environment for the children of Texas. There will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-1 is affected by this amendment.

§595.17.Incidental Use For Schools.

(a)

The Structural Pest Control Board Incidental Use Situation For Schools Fact Sheet must contain the following text: "This fact sheet must be distributed to all employees of school districts who apply general use Green List pesticides or Yellow List pesticides specific to bee and wasp applications and are not licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture and do not have a Structural Pest Control Board Noncommercial Applicator's or Technician License. The fact sheet, instruction and training shall be provided upon initial employment by the school district's IPM Coordinator, and thereafter shall be available as needed. These general use Green List pesticides include insecticides [ and rodenticides ] only and involve applications made both inside and outside of structures. Incidental Use is not intended for long term or extensive pest control measures , rather emergency situations where safety of students or workers is at risk and there is insufficient time to contact a licensed applicator . Where long term pest control is required, a trained, licensed person is to make the applications. Incidental Use for Schools is defined as "A pesticide application of a Green List [ green list ] product or a Yellow List product specific to bee or wasp applications on an occasional, no more than once a week, isolated, site-specific basis that is incidental to the primary duties of an employee and involves the use of general use pesticides after instruction and training as provided by rules adopted by the Structural Pest Control Board". Examples of Incidental Use situations are treating fire ants in a transformer box or treatments for bees or wasps as a non-routine application to protect children or personnel. Incidental Use is defined as site-specific and incidental to the employee's primary duties. If it is part of the employee's primary duty to make applications of pesticides, that employee is required, by law, to obtain either a Structural Pest Control Board license or Texas Department of Agriculture license, depending on the location and/or type of application. In all cases of Incidental Use [ incidental use ], the employee should use the least hazardous, effective method of controlling pests. All applications to schools or school grounds must be in compliance with school district IPM policies. If chemicals are utilitized, they must be applied in strict accordance with manufacturer labels of "General Use" products on the Green or Yellow List being used. Applications made inconsistent with the Structural Pest Control Board Law and Regulations, or applications made inconsistent with the label requirements of the general use product may result in penalties being assessed against the individual and/or the certified applicator or technician [ Certified Noncommercial Applicator or Technician ] responsible. "Incidental Use Situation" applications of pesticides are regulated by the Structural Pest Control Board. If you have any questions or comments, contact the Board at (512) 451-7200; written inquiries may be addressed to the Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723. Copies are available from the Structural Pest Control Board.

(b)

The Incidental Use For Schools Fact Sheet [ incidental use fact sheet ] shall be provided during pesticide instruction and training by the IPM Coordinator to each employee of the school district whose primary duty is not pest control, and whose work may include tasks subject to the [ incidental use ] exception. The IPM Coordinator must keep records of all the training conducted annually [ which is conducted ].

(c)

Primary duty is defined as a job duty that is part of a written job description or is a regularly assigned task of the employee.

(d)

Pest control use records must be kept by IPM Coordinator for all Incidental Use [ incidental use ] applications including reason for application and justification for emergency for two years.

(e)

Incidental Use [ use ] in school districts is limited to insecticides and rodenticides on the Green and [ green or ] Yellow list.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001575

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.21

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §595.21 concerning entry and access. The proposal makes clerical changes without changing the body of the regulation. The language change will provide consistency with other Board rules.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis has also determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the clarification of the rule and/or any language ambiguity. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statute Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-6 is affected by this amendment.

§595.21.Entry and Access.

(a)

Authorized employees of the Board [ board ] may conduct investigations of structural pest control activities involving any person in this state to determine compliance with the Act and Board [ board ] rules.

(b)

In conducting these investigations, the employees may, with proper permission:

(1)

enter the premise of a licensee during normal business hours to examine records, question witnesses, inspect pesticides and equipment used for pest control, and collect samples;

(2)

enter premises where licensees are performing pest control operations to inspect the use of pesticides and devices, check employee credentials, collect samples, identify pests, and inspect equipment;

(3)

on public property, inspect pesticides and equipment and question employees of persons suspected of conducting structural pest control activities.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001576

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.22

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §595.22 concerning Investigation of Complaints. The proposal makes clerical changes without changing the body of the regulation. The language change will provide consistency with other Board rules.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis has also determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the clarification of the rule and any language ambiguity. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-6 is affected by this amendment.

§595.22.Investigation of Complaints.

(a)

Any person with cause to believe that any provision of the Act or this chapter has been violated or who has experienced adverse effects from the actions of a person engaged in structural pest control may file a written complaint with the Board [ board ]. The Board [ board ] will furnish complaint forms for this purpose.

(b)

Upon receipt of a complaint, the Board [ board ] will conduct an investigation and issue a report as soon as possible.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001577

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §595.23

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §595.23 concerning Investigation Reports. The proposal makes clerical changes without changing the body of the regulation. The language change will provide consistency with other Board rules.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis has also determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the clarification of the rule and any language ambiguity. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statute Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-6 is affected by this amendment.

§595.23.Investigation Reports.

(a)

Written reports and documented evidence submitted by Board [ board ] investigators as the result of any investigation may be admitted, at the Board's [ board's ] discretion, as evidence in any hearing, or used to support other enforcement actions taken by the board or its authorized staff.

(b)

A copy of the investigation report resulting from a complaint will be made available to the complaining party and the party complained against upon request.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001578

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


Chapter 599. TREATMENT STANDARDS

22 TAC §599.1

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.1 concerning Termite Control. The proposal states it is illegal to use materials, products etc. for termite control without Board approval and adds that each US EPA and TDA registered pesticide product or device will be automatically approved by the Board as long as product is applied or used according to label instructions.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Mr. Mathis has also determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the definitive stipulation that it is illegal to use materials and products without Board approval and makes the pesticide label the enforcement policy. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals or small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas, 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated, Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

Article 135b-6 is affected by this amendment.

§599.1.Termite Control.

It is [ will be ] illegal to use materials, products and/or methods for termite control that are not approved by the Board.

(1)

Each pesticide product or device registered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and/or the Texas Department of Agriculture for termite control will be automatically approved by the Board [ board ] as long as the product is applied or used according to the instructions on the label or labeling.

(2)

Products or devices not subject to the Environmental Protection Agency or Texas Department of Agriculture registration may be approved by the Board if the manufacturer submits a request for approval to the Board. The request must contain the following information:

(A)

the name and address of the applicant and the name and address of the person whose name shall appear on the product label, if not the applicant's;

(B)

the name of the product or device;

(C)

a complete copy of all labeling to accompany the product or device and a statement of all claims to be made for it, including the directions for use;

(D)

the complete formula of the product, including active and inert ingredients;

(E)

a full description of the tests made and the results of the tests on which claims are based. These tests should be made by a recognized testing agency or institution and support, to the Board's [ board's ] satisfaction, the efficacy and safety of the product when used as directed; and

(F)

all available toxicology information, including the antidote or effective treatment.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001579

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §599.2

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.2, concerning subterranean termite post construction treatments.

The proposal substitutes application for spray mix and the treatment sticker may be placed on the wall adjacent to water heater, electric breaker box, beneath the kitchen sink or in the interior bath trap access.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There is no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the clarification of termiticide applications for post construction treatments and providing protection to the consumer and the public at large. There will be no cost to small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

he amendment is proposed under Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: §599.2, Article 135b-6.

§599.2. Subterranean Termite Post Construction Treatments.

(a)

All pesticide applications must be made in accordance with the directions and precautions specified on the labeling of the pesticide used. Except, the applications of less than the labeled concentration may be applied if the volume of application [ spray mix ] is increased to achieve the intended rate of active ingredient per foot in the treatment zone.

(b)-(c)

(No change.)

(d)

Upon completion of a termite treatment, other than a bait treatment , the company responsible for providing the treatment shall leave a durable sign on the wall adjacent to the water heater [ closet ], electric breaker box, beneath the kitchen sink or in the interior bath trap access giving the name and address of the licensee, the final date of the treatment, and a statement that the notice should not be removed.

(e)

For a termite treatment using a bait product, the requirement to place a durable sign [ as described in subsection (d) of this section ] applies at the time of the first placement of baits and/or monitoring stations.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001580

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §599.3

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.3, concerning subterranean termite preconstruction treatments.

The proposal leads with the addition that this section does not apply to baits or baiting systems. Renumbers existing sections and adds to diagram that a blueprint or building plat showing exact areas of treatment must be included with the documents that are sent to owners of the property and the Board. The amendment also proposes a change in the base penalty for violations of this section.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be a clarification of the rule for the better understanding of the consumer, the service provider and the public at large, and a better application and enforcement of the rule for the benefit of the consumer and the public at large. There will be no cost to small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: §§599.3, 599.4, 599.11, Article 135b-6.

§599.3. Subterranean Termite Pre-Construction Treatments.

(a)

This section does not apply to baits or baiting systems.

(b)

[ (a) ] All pesticide liquid applications must be made by using the application rate and methods and by following the precautionary statements on the labeling of the pesticide being used. Treatments using less than label recommended concentrations at higher volume or higher concentrations at reduced volume applications are prohibited for pre-construction treatments.

(c)

[ (b) ] For a full treatment, the entire structure shall be treated to provide a continuous horizontal and vertical barrier as described on the pesticide label including the posting of a treatment sticker and the final treatment to be performed within thirty (30) [ 30 ] days of notification of completion of landscaping or one year from the date of completion of construction, whichever comes first. Except, when construction has proceeded to the point that all areas cannot be treated before the company providing the treatment is called to perform the application, a partial treatment will be permitted if the owner of the structure or the person in charge of the construction and the certified applicator for the pest control company sign a statement attesting to the construction conditions, and attach it to the contract with an amended diagram or blueprint or building plat [ graph ] showing the exact areas to be treated and send copies to the owner of the property and the Structural Pest Control Board within seven (7) days of the application.

(d)

[ (c) ] In order to comply with subsection (c) [ (b) ] of this section, it will be necessary to return to the pretreatment site after the slab has been poured and/or piers and support beams have been placed to complete the treatment for the vertical barrier.

[ (d)

This section does not apply to termiticides applied as bait.]

(e)

Notice of all pre-construction treatments with contracts requiring treatment of a structure other than a single family dwelling must be called or faxed in to the Structural Pest Control Board between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. using the specified telephone or fax number at least four (4) , and no more than twenty four (24) [ 24 ] hours prior to termiticide application. The licensee must provide address and site location, type of treatment (partial or full), date and time of treatment, approximate square footage under contract and the name and physical address of the business licensee. If the treatment is cancelled, notice of cancellation must be sent using the specified telephone or fax number within one hour of the time the licensee learns of the cancellation.

(f)

For all commercial pre-construction treatments, the licensee must maintain records of square footage treated per application site, amount of termiticide used per application site, [ and ] rate at which termiticide is mixed for each application site , number of application tanks which were in use for the treatment and the capacity, in gallons, of each application tank, and the start and stop time for the treatment .

(g)

Any violation of this section will result in an administrative penalty of not less than $3000 per violation and is considered a base penalty 3 [ 4 ].

[(h)

The Board will begin review of this section two years after its effective date.]

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001581

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §599.5

The Texas Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.5, concerning inspection procedures.

The proposal deletes language on post construction termite treatment from the Wood Destroying Insect Report and adds that a Wood Destroying Insect Inspection report must be approved by a certified applicator upon completion. The language of WDI is spelled out as a clerical change and to provide consistency with Board rules.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be the better understanding of the rule by the consumer, the service provider and the public at large, and a better application and enforcement of the rule for the benefit of the consumer and the public at large. There will be no cost to small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to regulate persons who perform structural pest control services.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: §599.5, Article 135b-6.

§599.5. Inspection Procedures.

(a)

Inspections for the purpose of issuing a wood destroying insect report [ or for post- construction termite treatment ] shall be conducted in a manner consistent with the procedures described in this section. Inspections for the purpose of issuing a Wood Destroying Insect Report must be conducted by a licensed certified applicator or technician in the termite category[ . ] and shall be approved by a certified applicator upon completion . The purpose of the inspection is to provide a report regarding the absence or presence of Wood Destroying Insects [ (W.D.I.) ]. The inspection should provide the basis for recommendations of preventive or remedial actions ,if necessary, to minimize economic losses. For purposes of a Real Estate Transaction Inspection (§599.6 [ of this title (relating to Real Estate Transaction Inspection Reports) ]) only, there must be visible evidence of active infestation in the structure or visible evidence of a previous infestation in the structure with no evidence of prior treatment to recommend a corrective treatment. The inspection must be conducted so as to ensure examination of visible accessible areas in accordance with accepted procedures. While such an examination may reveal Wood Destroying Insects, [ W.D.I., ] there are instances when concealed infestations and/or damage may not be discovered. Examinations of inaccessible or obstructed areas are not required.

(b)

(No change.)

[ (c)

The inspector shall have knowledge of:]

[ (1)

the biology, habits, and identification of wood destroying insects;]

[ (2)

applicable federal, state, and local regulations;]

[ (3)

local construction practices; and]

[ (4)

the appropriate tools to use in conducting WDI inspections.]

(c)

[ (d) ] The inspector shall describe structure(s) inspected and include the following:

(1)

the address or location;

(2)

a diagram [ graph ] (does not have to be to scale) showing;

(A)

approximate measurements as accurately as practical [ possible ];

(B)

construction details needed for clarity of the report;

(C)

areas of present Wood Destroying Insect activity [ WDI activity ];

(D)

areas of previous Wood Destroying Insect [ WDI ] activity; and

(E)

areas of conditions conducive to infestation by Wood Destroying Insects [ WDI ];

[ (3)

the type of construction;]

[ (A)

foundation:]

[ (i)

slab;]

[ (ii)

pier and beam and type of pier;]

[ (iii)

basement; or]

[ (iv)

other (specify);]

[ (B)

siding:]

[ (i)

wood;]

[ (ii)

brick or stone; or]

[ (iii)

other (specify);]

[ (C)

roof:]

[ (i)

composition;]

[ (ii)

wood shingle;]

[ (iii)

metal; or]

[ (iv)

other;]

[ (D)

primary use:]

[ (i)

residence;]

[ (ii)

public building;]

[ (iii)

commercial;]

[ (iv)

industrial; or]

[ (v)

other (specify);]

(3)

[ (4) ] inaccessible or obstructed areas.

(d)

[ (e) ] The inspection shall include, but is not limited to, the following areas if accessible and unobstructed:

(1)

plumbing;

(A)

bathroom;

(B)

kitchen;

(C)

laundry; or

(D)

other (specify, i.e., hot tub, etc.);

(2)

window and door frames and sills;

(3)

baseboards, flooring, walls, and ceilings;

(4)

entrance steps and porches;

(5)

exterior of slab or foundation wall;

(6)

crawl space:

(A)

support piers (include stiff legs);

(B)

floor joist;

(C)

sub floors;

(D)

sill plates; and

(E)

foundation wall;

(7)

fireplace; and

(8)

weep holes.

(e)

[ (f) ] Visible evidence of the following conditions must be reported:

(1)

termite life forms or signs of current active infestation;

(2)

termite tubes or frass;

(3)

exit holes or frass from other Wood Destroying Insects; [ WDI ]

(4)

evidence of previous treatment or infestation;

(5)

conditions conducive to termite infestation such as:

(A)

wood to ground contact;

(B)

formboards left in place;

(C)

excessive moisture;

(D)

debris under or around structure;

(E)

footing too low or soil line too high;

(F)

insufficient clearance in crawl space;

(G)

expansion joints or cracks in slab; or

(H)

decks;

(6)

infestation of other wood destroying insects.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001583

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §599.6

The Texas Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.6, concerning Real Estate Transaction Inspection Reports.

The proposed amendment clarifies that visible presence or absence of termites or other wood destroying insects must be noted in connection with the issuance of a wood destroying insect report. The proposal also renumbers the Official Wood Destroying Insect Report form.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be no estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue on state or local government for the first five-year period the rule will be in effect. The cost of compliance with the rule for small businesses will be $75.00

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be improvement in the understanding and use of the Texas Official Wood Destroying Insect Report by consumers, the real estate industry and the structural pest control industry.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate persons who perform wood destroying insect inspections.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: §599.5, 599.6, Article 135b-6.

§599.6. Real Estate Transaction Inspection Reports.

(a)

All inspection reports issued regarding the visible presence or absence of termites and other wood destroying insects in connection with a real estate transaction shall be made on a form prescribed and officially adopted by the board.

(b)

(No change.)

(c)

The Texas Official Wood Destroying Insect Report Form SPCB\T-4 [ SPCB\T-3 ] is adopted by reference. The form may be examined in the office of the Texas Register and the Structural Pest Control Board. Forms for reproduction may be obtained from the Structural Pest Control Board office, 1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 100LW, Austin, Texas 78723-1066 .

(d)

(No change.)

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001584

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §599.7

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.7, concerning posting notice of inspection.

The proposed amendment renumbers the Texas Official Wood Destroying Insect Report form, adds the requirement of posting for treatment as well as inspection and that the posting of the treatment sticker be on the wall adjacent to the water heater, interior of bath trap access, electric breaker box, or beneath the kitchen sink and adds that the product used be stated.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will be that of providing additional safeguards for the consuming public, and better application and enforcement for the benefit of the consumer and the public at large. There will be no cost to small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed. There are no anticipated economic costs to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is adopted under Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: §599.7, Article 135b-6.

§599.7. Posting Notice of Inspection or Treatment .

(a)

Upon completion of an inspection for the purposes of completing the SPCB/T-4 [ SPCB/T-3 ] Form, the inspector shall post a durable sign on the wall adjacent to the water heater [ closet ], interior of bath trap access , [ or ] electric breaker box or beneath the kitchen sink giving the name and address of the licensee, the date of the inspection or treatment, [ and ] a statement that the notice should not be removed and of the product used .

(b)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001585

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


22 TAC §599.11

The Structural Pest Control Board proposes an amendment to §599.11, concerning structural fumigation requirements.

The proposed amendment specifies the responsibility of the certified applicator throughout the regulation as that individual that performs the fumigation, fulfills posting requirements, secures the structure to prevent entry by those unauthorized and maintaining safety and establishing responsibility for the handling of the gases used in the fumigation. The proposal also adds that the treatment sticker be posted on the wall adjacent to the electric breaker box, as well as beneath the kitchen sink or in the interior bath trap access and specifies that the report for each fumigation job include temperature and wind conditions.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that there will not be fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will not be any estimated additional cost, estimated reduction in cost or estimated loss or increase in revenue to state or local government for the first five year period the rule will be in effect.

Benny M. Mathis, Executive Director, has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule as proposed is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule as proposed will heighten protection for the public health and safety of the public at large. There will be no cost to small businesses who are required to comply with the rule as proposed. There are no anticipated economic costs to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank M. Crull, General Counsel, Structural Pest Control Board, 1106 Clayton Lane #100LW, Austin, Texas 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat. Ann., Article 135b-6, which provides the Structural Pest Control Board with the authority to license and regulate the structural pest control industry.

The following is the (statutes, articles or code) that are affected by this rule: §599.4, §599.11, Article 135b-6.

§599.11. Structural Fumigation Requirements.

(a)-(e)

(No change.)

(f)

Warning signs shall be printed in red on white backgrounds and shall contain the following statement in letters not less than two inches in height; "Danger--Fumigation." They shall also depict a skull and crossbones, not less than one inch in height, the name of the fumigant, the date and time fumigant was introduced, and the name, address, and telephone number where the certified applicator [ licensee ] performing the fumigation may be reached twenty four (24) [ 24 ] hours a day.

(g)

On any structure that has been fumigated, the certified applicator [ licensee ] who performed the fumigation shall, immediately upon completion, post a durable sign on the wall adjacent to the electric breaker box, [ meter or hot ] water heater , beneath the kitchen sink or in the interior bath trap access . This shall be a durable sign not less than one inch by two inches in size. It shall have the name of the certified applicator [ licensee ], date of fumigation, [ type of ] fumigant used, and the purpose for which it was fumigated (target pest).

(h)

A certified applicator [ licensee ] performing fumigation shall use adequate warning agents with all fumigants which lack such properties. When conditions involving abnormal hazards exist, the person exercising direct on-site supervision shall take such safety precautions in addition to those prescribed to protect the public health and safety. The certified applicator shall visibly inspect the structures to assure vacancy prior to introduction of fumigant.

(i)

The certified applicator [ licensee ] shall also post a person or persons at the location from the time the fumigant is introduced until all tarpaulins and seals are removed and the label concentration for aeration is reached. The person posted at the location shall deter entry into the structure by routinely inspecting the structure under fumigation at least once each hour. The person posted at the location shall be alert and on duty to prevent entry into the structure while the fumigant is present. The certified applicator [ licensee ] shall then secure all entrances to the structure in such a manner as to prevent entry by anyone other than the certified applicator [ licensee ] or an agent of the certified applicator [ licensee ]. The structure shall remain secured until the concentration indicated by the fumigant label for release for occupancy is reached.

(j)

For the purpose of maintaining proper safety and establishing responsibility in handling the dangerous gases used in fumigation, the certified applicator [ licensee ] shall compile and retain for a period of at least two (2) years a report for each fumigation job and/or treatment. The report for each fumigation job or treatment shall contain the following information:

(1)-(2)

(No change.)

(3)

type of roof [ structure as to details of roofing ];

(4)-(5)

(No change.)

(6)

[ kind of ] fumigant or fumigants used and amount;

(7)-(8)

(No change.)

(9)

temperature and wind conditions [ weather conditions as to temperature and wind ];

(10)-(14)

(No change.)

(k)

(No change.)

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001586

Benny M. Mathis, Jr.

Executive Director

Structural Pest Control Board

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 451-7200


Part 29. TEXAS BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL LAND SURVEYING

Chapter 661. GENERAL RULES OF PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES

Subchapter D. APPLICATIONS, EXAMINATIONS, AND LICENSING

22 TAC §661.45

The Texas Board of Professional Land Surveying proposes an amendment to §661.45, concerning examinations.

The section is being proposed to bring the section into conformance with national testing standards.

Sandy Smith, executive director, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government.

Ms. Smith also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be conformance with national testing standards. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Sandy Smith, Texas Board of Professional Land Surveying, 7701 North Lamar, Suite 400, Austin, Texas 78752.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Civil Statutes, Article 5282c, §9, which provides the Texas Board of Professional Land Surveying with the authority to make and enforce all reasonable and necessary rules, regulations and bylaws not inconsistent with the Texas Constitution, the laws of this state, and this Act.

No other statute, article, or code is affected by this proposal.

§661.45.Examinations.

(a)

Registered professional land surveyor examinations shall be written and so designed to aid the board in determining the applicant's knowledge of surveying, mathematics, surveying laws, and his general fitness to practice the profession as outlined in the Professional Land Surveying Practices Act. The examinations will cover a two-day period and the applicant will be notified at least 10 days in advance of the date, time, and place of the examination. If an applicant fails to appear for two successive examinations, the applicant's file will be closed and will not be reopened without the filing of a new application and fee.

(b)

Calculators will be permitted to be used during any examination. Any non-communicating, [ slide rule or ] silent, hand held, battery operated, nonprinting calculator will be permitted. Calculating and computing devices having a QWERTY keypad arrangement similar to a typewriter or keyboard are not permitted. Such devices include but are not limited to palmtop, laptop, handheld and desktop computers, calculators, databanks, data collectors, and organizers. Calculators with alphanumeric keypads are permitted. No communication device of any type will be permitted, including but not limited to pagers and cellular phones.

(c)

An applicant repeating the examination will be required to repeat only those portions of the examination on which the applicant made less than a passing grade.

(d)

Licensed state land surveyors' examinations shall be written and so designed to test the applicant's knowledge of the history, files, and functions of the General Land Office, survey construction, legal aspects pertaining to state interest in vacancies, excesses, and unpatented lands, and familiarity with other state interests in surface and subsurface rights as covered by existing law.

(e)

The licensed state land surveyor examination will be in two four-hour sections and each part graded independently. If an applicant fails either part, that applicant will be required to file an updated application with fee and repeat the entire examination.

(f)

The contents of all examination materials are confidential. Any registrant and/or applicant who takes an action with the intent to compromise the confidentiality of the examination is subject to disciplinary sanction, administrative penalties, or both. Each candidate will be required to sign a statement that they will neither copy nor divulge any examination problem or solution, and that any violation thereof will be sufficient grounds for invalidating the candidate's examination. In assessing an appropriate penalty or sanction, the Board may do any one or more of the following :

(1)

impose the penalties and sanctions set out in Texas Civil Statutes, Article 5282c; [ morma ]

(2)

disqualifying the applicant from taking future examinations for a period of three years;

(3)

disqualifying the applicant from taking future examinations until the applicant successfully completes a Board-approved study of professional ethics;

(4)

disqualify the applicant from further consideration for certification or registration ; [ . ]

(5)

invalidate the candidate's examination.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 1, 2000.

TRD-200001558

Sandy Smith

Deputy Executive Director

Texas Board of Professional Land Surveying

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 16, 2000

For further information, please call: (512) 452-9427