TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 5. STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 101. DENTAL LICENSURE

22 TAC §101.7

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §101.7, Licensure by Credentials - Dentists. The amended §101.7(9), requires additional background verification of applicants wishing to be licensed through credentialing. Rule 101.7(9) is amended to require an applicant make application with the Professional Background Information Services (PBIS), request a Level II verification, pay to PBIS the required fees, and request that verification be sent to the SBDE for determination of successful background verification. This requirement is in addition to the current requirement under §101.7(9) that an applicant successfully pass background checks for criminal or fraudulent activities through information obtained from the National Practitioner Data Bank, the Healthcare Integrity and Protection Data Bank, and/or the AADE Clearinghouse for Disciplinary Action.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five year period the amended rule is in effect there will be limited fiscal implications for state government and no impact for local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

There is an anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amended section. There is no anticipated local employment impact as a result of enforcing this amended section.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of the amended section will be uniformity in licensees' qualifications for licensure through background verification requirements to enable only those applicants meeting these requirements to practice dentistry in the State of Texas.

The fiscal implications for small or large businesses will be minimal or none at all. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small business when compared to large businesses. The requirement for PBIS under §101.7(9), specifically the requirement of fees, will impact individuals who make application and not small or large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners no later than 30 days from the date that this amended rule is published in the Texas Register .

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et seq.; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry, and §256.101 which provides for the issuance of a license to certain out-of-state applicants.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§101.7.Licensure by Credentials - Dentists.

The State Board of Dental Examiners will license applicants by credentials upon payment of a fee, in an amount set by the Board, who meet all SBDE and State of Texas minimum applicant requirements and general licensure qualifications and all of the following criteria:

(1) Has graduated from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Dental Schools so accredited are approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners for purposes of licensing their graduates of credentials;

(2) Is currently licensed in good standing in another state, the District of Columbia, or territory of the United States that has licensing requirements that are substantially equivalent to the requirements of the Texas Dental Practice Act;

(3) Has practiced dentistry:

(A) For a minimum of five years immediately preceding application to the State Board of Dental Examiners; or

(B) As a dental educator at a dental or dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association for a minimum of five years immediately preceding application to the State Board of Dental Examiners;

(4) Is endorsed by the state board of dentistry of the jurisdiction of current practice. Such endorsement is established by providing a copy under seal of the jurisdiction entity of the current dentist's license and by a certified statement that he/she has current good standing in said jurisdiction;

(5) Has not been the subject of final or pending disciplinary action in any jurisdiction in which applicant is or has been licensed;

(6) Has taken and passed the jurisprudence examination administered by the State Board of Dental Examiners within one year immediately prior to application;

(7) Has passed a national written examination relating to dentistry as certified by the American Dental Association Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations or other examination approved by the SBDE;

(8) Has passed a state or regional general dentistry clinical examination;

(9) Has successfully passed background checks for criminal or fraudulent activities to include information from the National Practitioner Data Bank, the Healthcare Integrity and Protection Data Bank and/or the AADE Clearinghouse for Disciplinary Action . [ ; ] For applications filed after August 31, 2002, an applicant shall make application with the Professional Background Information Services (PBIS), requesting Level II verification, paying the required fees, and requesting verification be sent to the board for determination of successful background verification.

(10) Practice experience described in paragraph (3) of this section must be subsequent to applicant having graduated from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association; and

(11) Each candidate for licensure by credentials must submit to the Board the required documents and information prescribed in this rule and other documents or information that may be requested to enable the Board to evaluate an application and take appropriate actions.

(12) Shows proof of current CPR certification as required by the Texas Dental Practice Act Chapter 256, Section 256.101.

(13) Submits proof of completion of 12 hours of continuing education taken within the twelve months preceding the date the licensure application is received by the SBDE. All hours shall be taken in accordance with the provisions as cited in §104.1 (5)-(7) of this title (relating to Requirements) and §104.2 of this title (relating to Providers).

(14) An application for licensure is filed with the State Board of Dental Examiners when it is actually received, date-stamped, and logged-in by the State Board of Dental Examiners along with all required documentation and fees. An incomplete application for licensure and fee will be returned to applicant within three working days with an explanation of additional documentation or information needed.

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 February 4, 2002.

TRD-200200685

Jeffry R. Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Chapter 103. DENTAL HYGIENE LICENSURE

22 TAC §103.2

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §103.2, Licensure by Credentials, Dental Hygienists. The amended §103.2(10), requires additional background verification of applicants wishing to be licensed through credentialing. Rule 103.2(10) is amended to require an applicant make application with the Professional Background Information Services (PBIS), request a Level II verification, pay to PBIS the required fees, and request that verification be sent to the SBDE for determination of successful background verification. This requirement is in addition to the current requirement under §103.2(10) that an applicant successfully pass background checks for criminal or fraudulent activities through information obtained from the National Practitioner Data Bank, the Healthcare Integrity and Protection Data Bank, and/or the AADE Clearinghouse for Disciplinary Action.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five year period the amended rule is in effect there will be minimal fiscal implications for state government and none for local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

There is an anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amended section. There is no anticipated local employment impact as a result of enforcing this amended section.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of the amended section will be uniformity in licensees' qualifications for licensure through background verification requirements to enable only those applicants meeting these requirements to practice dentistry in the State of Texas.

The fiscal implications for small or large businesses will be minimal or none at all. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small business when compared to large businesses. The requirement for PBIS under §103.2(10), specifically the requirement of fees, will impact individuals who make application and not small or large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners no later than 30 days from the date that this amended rule is published in the Texas Register .

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et seq.; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry, and §256.101 which provides for the issuance of a license to certain out-of-state applicants.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§103.2.Licensure by Credentials, Dental Hygienists.

The State Board of Dental Examiners will license dental hygiene applicants by credentials upon payment of a fee, in the amount set by the Board, who meet all SBDE and State of Texas minimum applicant requirements, general licensure qualifications, and all of the following criteria:

(1) Has graduated from a dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Dental Hygiene schools so accredited are approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners for purposes of licensing their graduates by credentials;

(2) Is currently licensed in good standing in another state, the District of Columbia, or territory of the United States, that has licensing requirements that are substantially equivalent to the requirements of the Texas Dental Practice Act;

(3) Has practiced dental hygiene:

(A) For a minimum of three years immediately preceding application to the State Board of Dental Examiners. An applicant has practiced dental hygiene for three years if he or she has been actively engaged in practice for at least twenty-six weeks in each of the past three years preceding application, or

(B) As a dental educator at a dental or dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association for a minimum or five years immediately preceding application to the State Board of Dental Examiners;

(4) Is endorsed by the state board of dentistry of the jurisdiction of current practice. Such endorsement is established by providing a copy under seal of the jurisdictional entity of the current dental hygienist's license and by a certified statement that he/she has current good standing in said jurisdiction;

(5) Has not been the subject of final or pending disciplinary action in any jurisdiction in which applicant is or has been licensed;

(6) Has taken and passed the jurisprudence examination administered by the State Board of Dental Examiners within one year immediately prior to application;

(7) Has passed a national written examination relating to dental hygiene as certified by the American Dental Association Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations or other examination approved by the SBDE;

(8) Has passed a state or regional general dental hygiene clinical examination;

(9) Is reputable, as demonstrated by at least 2 letters of character reference which have been notarized;

(10) For applications filed after August 31, 2002, an applicant shall make application with the Professional Background Information Services (PBIS), requesting Level II verification, paying the required fees, and requesting verification be sent to the board for determination of successful background verification.

(11) [ (10) ] Practice experience described in paragraph (3) of this title must be subsequent to applicant having graduated from a dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association; and

(12) [ (11) ] Each candidate for licensure by credentials must submit to the Board the required documents and information prescribed in this §103.2 and other documents or information that may be requested, to enable the Board to evaluate an application and take appropriate actions.

(13) [ (12) ] Shows proof of current CPR certification as required by the Texas Dental Practice Act, Chapter 256, Section 256.101.

(14) [ (13) ] Submits proof of completion of 12 hours of continuing education taken within the twelve months preceding the date the licensure application is received by the SBDE. All hours shall be taken in accordance with the provisions as cited in §104.1 (5)-(7) of this title (relating to Requirements) and §104.2 of this title (relating to Providers).

(15) [ (14) ] An application for licensure is filed with the State Board of Dental Examiners when it is actually received, date-stamped, and logged-in by the State Board of Dental Examiners along with all required documentation and fee. An incomplete application for licensure and fee will be returned to applicant within three working days with an explanation of additional documentation or information needed.

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 February 4, 2002.

TRD-200200686

Jeffry R. Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Chapter 108. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

Subchapter A. PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

22 TAC §108.5

The State Board of Dental Examiners proposes amendments to §108.5, Termination of Relationship. Rule 108.5 is amended and titled, "Patient Abandonment." This rule deals with patient abandonment and prohibits patient abandonment by a dentist. The amended rule requires a dentist provide the patient adequate notice and the opportunity to obtain the services of another dentist prior to discontinuing treatment that has been undertaken by the dentist. The rule also requires that a dentist shall exercise the level of care necessary to prevent jeopardizing the patient's oral health during this process.

Jeffry R. Hill, Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, has determined for the first five year period the amended rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local or state government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amended rule. There is no anticipated local employment impact as a result of enforcing this amended section.

Mr. Hill also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended rule is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of the rule will be the safeguarding of patients' oral health once a course of treatment has been undertaken by a dentist with the delivery of dentistry according to the level of care with respect to patient abandonment.

The fiscal implications for small or large businesses will be minimal or none at all. Therefore the SBDE has determined that compliance with the proposed amended rule will not have an adverse economic impact on small business when compared to large businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mei Ling Clendennen, Assistant Executive Director, State Board of Dental Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower 3, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701, (512-463-6400). To be considered, all written comments must be received by the State Board of Dental Examiners no later than 30 days from the date that this amended rule is published in the Texas Register .

The amended rule is proposed under Texas Government Code §2001.021 et seq.; Texas Civil Statutes, the Occupations Code §254.001 which provides the State Board of Dental Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce rules necessary for it to perform its duties, and to ensure compliance with laws relating to the practice of dentistry.

The proposed amended rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§108.5. Patient Abandonment [ Termination of Relationship ].

(a) A dentist, without reasonable cause, shall not abandon a dental patient. Once a dentist has undertaken a course of treatment, the dentist, absent reasonable cause, shall not discontinue that treatment without giving the patient adequate notice and the opportunity to obtain the services of another dentist. A dentist shall exercise the level of care necessary to prevent jeopardizing the patient's oral health during this process. [ A dentist shall not abandon a dental patient he/she has undertaken to treat. ]

[ (1) to terminate a dentist-patient relationship, a dentist shall give a minimum of 30 days written notice of his/her intent to discontinue treatment. This notice shall be either hand-delivered to the patient or sent via certified mail, return receipt requested to the patient's last known address. A dentist shall retain a copy of the notice letter in the patient's file.]

[ (2) to constitute proper written notice, a dentist shall include the following: ]

[(A) a short description of the patient's current status, including the patient's current diagnosis and a summary of the patient's current treatment plan;]

[ (B) a short description of the patient's present and future dental needs;]

[ (C) an explanation regarding the consequences of non-treatment;]

[ (D) a recommendation that the patient continue care with another dentist; and]

[ (E) a clear statement emphasizing that the dentist is available to provide any treatment necessary to prevent patient harm, including emergency treatment that the patient may require during the 30-day period.]

[ (3) a dentist shall continue to render appropriate care for at least 30 days from when the requisite written notice of a dentist's intent to terminate was mailed.]

(b) Under this section, a dentist shall give a minimum of 30 days written notice of his/her intent to discontinue undertaken treatment. Notice shall be either hand-delivered to the patient or sent via certified mail, return receipt requested to the patient's last known address, with the dentist retaining a copy of the notice letter in the patient's file along with proof of service. Adequate notice shall include the following:

(1) a short description of the patient's current status, including the patient's current diagnosis and a summary of the patient's current treatment plan;

(2) a short description of the patient's present and future needs;

(3) an explanation regarding the consequences of non-treatment;

(4) a recommendation that the patient continue care with another dentist; and

(5) a clear statement emphasizing that the dentist is available to provide any emergency treatment necessary to prevent patient harm during the 30-day period.

(c) A dentist shall remain reasonably available to render any emergency treatment necessary under (b)(5) of this section for up to 30 days from the date of such notice.

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 February 4, 2002.

TRD-200200687

Jeffry R. Hill

Executive Director

State Board of Dental Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 463-6400


Part 18. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PODIATRIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 371. EXAMINATIONS

22 TAC §371.3

The Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners proposes amendments to §371.3 concerning Qualification of Applicants. The amendment is being proposed to make the necessary changes needed to include the Texas Occupations Code numbering system that replaces the old Texas Civil Statutes and to change the rules for the administration of the examination to be changed from an oral to a jurisprudence exam.

Allen M. Hymans, Executive Director has determined that for each year of the first five years the sections are in effect there will be no fiscal implications as a result of enforcing or administering these sections.

Mr. Hymans has also determined that for each year for the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rules will be that the candidates will not have to wait for six months to take the test and therefore will be able to get a license and serve the public more quickly.

Comments on or about the proposal may be submitted to Janie Alonzo, Staff Services Officer III, Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners, P.O. Box 12216, Austin, TX 78711-2216, Janie.Alonzo@foot.state.tx.us.

The amendments are being proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §202.151, which provides the Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners with the authority to adopt reasonable or necessary rules and bylaws consistent with the law regulating the practice of podiatry, the law of this state, and the law of the United States to govern its proceedings and activities, the regulation of the practice of podiatry and the enforcement of the law regulating the practice of podiatry.

The proposed amendments implement Texas Occupations Code, §202.254.

§371.3.Qualification of Applicants.

(a) - (b) (No change.)

(c) All applicants shall have completed the number of college courses required by the Texas Occupations Code, §202.252(b)(3), [ Texas Civil Statutes Article 4570(b)(3), ] and graduated from an accredited college of Podiatric Medicine in the United States. The applicant's entire course of instruction must be from such an approved college, and the college must have been so approved during the entire course of the applicant's course of instruction.

(d) - (e) (No change.)

(f) If §371.6(e) of this title (relating to Administration of Examination [ Time, Place and Scope of Examinations ]) applies, all applicants must meet the overall minimum cut score for the jurisprudence [ criterion referenced ] exam. Each applicant shall cause their test scores from such exam to be sent directly from the testing entity to the Board.

(g) - (j) (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 February 4, 2002.

TRD-200200660

Janie Alonzo

Staff Services Officer III

Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7002


Part 21. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PSYCHOLOGISTS

Chapter 463. APPLICATIONS AND EXAMINATIONS

22 TAC §463.11

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §463.11, concerning Licensed Psychologist. The amendments are being proposed in order to remove the limited exceptions granted to out-of-state psychologists with experience so that the more general licensure for experience could be added to Board rule §463.13.

Sherry L. Lee, 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 as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Ms. Lee 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 to make the rules easier for the licensees and public to follow and understand. 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 Kourtney D. McDonald, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-450, Austin, TX 78701, (512) 305-7700.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.

The proposed amendment does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§463.11.Licensed Psychologist.

(a) - (c) (No change.)

[ (d) Exceptions for Experience. For purposes of licensure as a psychologist, if an applicant has been licensed for 15 years or more in another jurisdiction as a psychologist and provides written verification of no disciplinary actions by the licensing entity of that jurisdiction or by any other licensing entity of a jurisdiction in which the applicant has held licensure as a psychologist, the following requirements for licensure may be applied:]

[ (1) Subsection (c)(2)(B)(iii) of this section may be satisfied by having one full-time equivalent licensed psychologist as a primary supervisor;]

[ (2) Subsection (c)(2)(B)(ix) of this section may be waived;]

[ (3) Subsection (c)(2)(B)(xi) of this section may be waived;]

[ (4) Subsection (c)(2)(C)(ix) of this section may be waived;]

[ (5) Subsection (c)(2)(C)(xii) of this section may be waived; and]

[ (6) Subsection (c)(2)(C)(xiii) of this section may be filled by having one full-time licensed psychologist as a primary supervisor who is employed full time at the agency and who is a school psychologist.]

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 February 1, 2002.

TRD-200200642

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7700


22 TAC §463.13

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes new rule §463.13, concerning Requirements for Experienced Out-of-State Applicants. The new rule is being proposed in order to facilitate licensure of long-term licensees of other states who do not have a reciprocity agreement with Texas. The rule requires provisional licensure, but reduces the technical requirements for verifying supervised experience.

Sherry L. Lee, 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 as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Ms. Lee 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 to make the rules easier for the licensees and public to follow and understand. 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 Kourtney D. McDonald, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-450, Austin, TX 78701, (512) 305-7700.

The new rule is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.

The proposed new rule does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§463.13.Requirements for Experienced Out-of-State Applicants.

An applicant who provides documentation that the applicant has been actively licensed and in good standing as a psychologist in another jurisdiction for 10 years, and for at least 5 years consecutively before the application is submitted must meet the following requirements, which are a substitute for Board rule §463.11:

(1) The applicant must have already obtained provisional licensure and must document that the applicant is a provisionally licensed psychologist in good standing.

(2) Supervised experience. The applicant must affirm that the applicant has received 3,000 hours of experience supervised by a psychologist licensed in the state where the supervision took place. At least half of these hours (1,500 hours) must have been completed after the doctoral degree was conferred or completed. The formal internship year may be met either before or after the doctoral degree was conferred or completed, as indicated on the official transcript.

(3) The applicant must document that the applicant has not received any disciplinary action by any other jurisdiction and that there is no pending action or complaint against the applicant in any other jurisdiction.

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 February 1, 2002.

TRD-200200643

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7700


22 TAC §463.15

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §463.15, concerning Requirements for Experienced Out-of-State Applicants. The amendments are being proposed in order to exempt persons who qualify for licensure by experience (Board rule §463.13) from having to take the Oral Examination.

Sherry L. Lee, 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 as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Ms. Lee 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 to make the rules easier for the licensees and public to follow and understand. 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 Kourtney D. McDonald, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-450, Austin, TX 78701, (512) 305-7700.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.

The proposed amendment does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§463.15.Oral Examination.

(a) (No change.)

(b) Eligibility. To be eligible for licensure as a psychologist, all provisionally licensed psychologists shall be required to take and pass the oral exam administered by the Board. Only provisionally licensed psychologists may apply to take the oral exam. The Board shall waive this requirement for Diplomates of the American Board of Professional Psychology , individuals who qualify for licensure by experience pursuant to Board rule §463.13, and for individuals who qualify for licensure under reciprocity.

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 February 1, 2002.

TRD-200200644

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7700


Chapter 465. RULES OF PRACTICE

22 TAC §465.18

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.18, concerning Forensic Services. The amendments are being proposed in order to add substantive requirements for psychologists who perform child custody evaluations and to add an exception to the informed consent requirement for situations in which consent is precluded by court order.

Sherry L. Lee, 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 as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Ms. Lee 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 to make the rules easier for the licensees and public to follow and understand. 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 Kourtney D. McDonald, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-450, Austin, TX 78701, (512) 305-7700.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.

The proposed amendment does not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§465.18.Forensic Services.

(a) - (b) (No change.)

(c) Describing the Nature of Services. Licensees who interview or examine an individual for purposes of providing forensic services must first inform the individual of the specific purpose of the interview or examination, the party on whose behalf they are performing the services, the use to which the information gathered will be put and who will have access to the results. If there are multiple parties, the psychologist must obtain written informed consent from all adult participants unless informed consent is precluded by court order. All participants must be made aware of the purpose and scope of the evaluation, who has requested the service, and who will be paying fees. Psychologists also inform parties on limits to confidentiality where the engagement involves testimony.

(d) Child Custody Evaluations.

(1) The primary consideration in a child custody evaluation is to assess the individual and family factors that affect the best psychological interests of the child, who is the client. Other factors or specific factors may also be addressed given a specific forensic services engagement.

(2) Child custody evaluations generally involve an assessment of the adults' capacity for parenting, an assessment of the psychological functioning, developmental needs, and wishes of the child, and the functional ability of each parent to meet such needs. Other socioeconomic factors, family, collateral and community resources may also be taken into secondary consideration.

(3) The role of the psychologist in a child custody forensic engagement is one of a professional expert. The psychologist cannot function as an advocate and must retain impartiality and objectivity, regardless of whether retained by the court or a party to the divorce. The psychologist must not perform an evaluation where there has been a prior therapeutic relationship with the child or the child's immediate family members, unless required to do so by court order.

(4) The scope of the evaluation is determined by the psychologist based on the referral question(s). Licensees must comprehensively perform the evaluation based on the scope of the referral, but not exceed the scope of the referral.

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 February 1, 2002.

TRD-200200645

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7700


Chapter 473. FEES

22 TAC §473.1, §473.2

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §473.1, concerning Application Fees (Not Refundable) and §473.2, concerning Examination Fees (Not Refundable). The amendments are being proposed in order to fulfill requirements of contingent revenue for Fiscal Year 2002-2003 appropriations for the Board effective September 1, 2002.

Sherry L. Lee, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rules are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be to make the rules easier for the licensees and public to follow and understand. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the rules as proposed.

Comments on the proposals may be submitted to Kourtney D. McDonald, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-450, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 305-7700.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.

The proposed amendments do not affect other statutes, articles, or codes.

§473.1.Application Fees (Not Refundable).

(a) Psychological Associate Licensure $170 [ $160 ]

(b) Provisionally Licensed Psychologist $320 [ $310 ]

(c) Licensure $160 [ $150 ]

(d) Reciprocity $460 [ $450 ]

(e) Licensed Specialist in School Psychology $200 [ $190 ]

§473.2.Examination Fees (Not Refundable).

(a) (No change.)

(b) Jurisprudence-- $210 [ $200 ]

(c) Oral Examination-- $320 [ $300 ]

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 February 1, 2002.

TRD-200200647

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7700


22 TAC §473.5

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §473.5, concerning Miscellaneous Fees (Not Refundable). The amendments are being proposed in order to clarify miscellaneous fees for staff analysis of the Jurisprudence Examination.

Sherry L. Lee, 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 as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Ms. Lee 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 to make the rules easier for the licensees and public to follow and understand. 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 Kourtney D. McDonald, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-450, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 305-7700.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.

§473.5.Miscellaneous Fees (Not Refundable).

(a) - (e) (No change.)

(f) Analysis [ Hand scoring ] of jurisprudence examination--$50.

(g) - (i) (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 February 1, 2002.

TRD-200200646

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7700


Part 28. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF PHYSICAL THERAPY AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY EXAMINERS

Chapter 651. FEES

22 TAC §651.2

The Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §651.2, Physical Therapy Board Fees. The amendment will increase fees in support of the state's development of an electronic system for occupational licensing transactions and other state initiatives.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, 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 as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Maline 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 easier access to more online services and information. There will be no effect on small businesses. Licensees who are required to comply with the rule as proposed will pay a higher renewal fee.

Comments on the proposed amendment may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; e-mail: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendment is proposed under Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 452, Occupations Code, which provides the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 452, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§651.2.Physical Therapy Board Fees.

(a) - (e) (No change.)

(f) License Renewal.

(1) Active license.

(A) PT-- $215 [ $200 ].

(B) PTA-- $165 [ $150 ].

(2) (No change.)

(g) Inactive to Active License (Reactivation)

(1) PT--a fee equal to the renewal fee.

(2) PTA--a fee equal to the renewal fee.

(h) [ (g) ] Late Fees--Renewal (all licensees).

(1) Late 90 days or less--the renewal fee plus a late fee equal to one-half of the examination fee.

(2) Late more than 90 days but less than one year--the renewal fee plus a fee equal to the examination fee.

(i) [ (h) ] License Restoration (all licensees, under the conditions set out in §341.6 of the Physical Therapy Board Rules)--a fee equal to the examination fee.

(j) [ (i) ] Facility Registration.

(1) First facility--$300.

(2) Additional site--$100.

(k) [ (j) ] Facility Renewal.

(1) First facility--$300.

(2) Additional site--$100.

(l) [ (k) ] Late Fees--All Facilities.

(1) Late 90 days or less--a fee equal to one-half of the renewal fee, in addition to the renewal fee.

(2) Late more than 90 days but less than one year--a fee equal to the renewal fee, in addition to the renewal fee.

(m) [ (l) ] Facility Restoration (all facilities)--renewal fee(s) plus a restoration fee that is double the renewal fee.

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 January 30, 2002.

TRD-200200583

John P. Maline

Executive Director

Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900