TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 10. TEXAS FUNERAL SERVICE COMMISSION

Chapter 201. LICENSING AND ENFORCEMENT--PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

22 TAC §201.9

The Texas Funeral Service Commission proposes an amendment to Title 22, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 201, §201.9, relating to Preparation and Dissemination of Consumer Information.

The amendment is proposed because existing §201.9(c) refers to the display of "copies" of Commission brochures. The new language clarifies that the funeral director in charge shall display commission consumer "brochures" at all times in a prominent place within the funeral establishment.

O.C. "Chet" Robbins, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the amendment is in effect, there will be no fiscal implication for the state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering the proposed amendment.

Mr. Robbins further has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the amendment is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the amendment will be a better understanding of the responsibilities of the funeral director in regard to the display of commission consumer brochures. There will be no effect on large, small or micro-businesses. The anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with this amendment will be no more nor less than the costs to the individuals under §201.9 before this amendment and there is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mr. Robbins at P.O. Box 12217 Capital Station, Austin, Texas 78711-1440, (512) 479-5064 (fax), or electronically to chet.robbins@tfsc.state.tx.us.

The amendment to §201.9 is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §651.152. The commission interprets §651.152 as authorizing it to adopt rules as necessary to administer Chapter 651.

No other statutes, articles, or codes are affected by the proposal.

§201.9.Preparation and Dissemination of Consumer Information.

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

(c) Information of consumer interest prepared and disseminated by the commission shall be available to the general public through funeral establishments. The funeral director in charge shall prominently display commission consumer brochures in the public view within the funeral establishment. [ It shall be the responsibility of the funeral director in charge to have prominently displayed within the funeral establishment multiple copies of the commission's consumer brochure. ] Information of consumer interest prepared and disseminated by the commission shall also be available, upon request, to individuals, and to the following types of groups, organizations, and institutions, i.e., better business bureaus, hospice groups, consumer groups, libraries, and legislators.

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303229

Cue D. Boykin

Assistant Attorney General

Texas Funeral Service Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 475-4219


Chapter 203. LICENSING AND ENFORCEMENT--SPECIFIC SUBSTANTIVE RULES

22 TAC §203.22, §203.30

The Texas Funeral Service Commission proposes amendments to Title 22, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 203, §203.22, relating to Required Documentation for Embalming and §203.30, relating to Continuing Education.

The amendment to §203.22 is proposed to clarify that the licensed embalmer performing the embalming procedure must complete and sign the embalming case report.

The amendment to §203.30(f) is proposed to change the requisite number of continuing education hours from 20 hours to 16 hours every two years for those licensed funeral directors and embalmers who actively participate in the state.

The amendment to §203.30(g)(8) is proposed to eliminate the requirement that licensees must request and obtain permission from the commission when excessive continuing education hours are to be carried over to the next licensing period.

The amendment to §203.30(h)(2) is proposed require individuals licensed in Texas, but not practicing in the state to obtain 6 mandatory hours of continuing education. Additionally, the amendment adds language clarifying that any individual returning to practice in this state shall meet all continuing education requirements before resuming any funeral directing and/or embalming activities.

O.C. "Chet" Robbins, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the amendments are in effect, there will be no fiscal implication for the state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering the proposed amendments.

Mr. Robbins further has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the amendments are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing §203.22 will be the clarification of the responsibility of the licensed embalmer in regard to completing and signing the embalming case report. The public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amendments of §203.30 will be to clarify continuing education requirements for licensed funeral directors. There will be no effect on large, small or micro-businesses. The anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with these sections will be no more nor less than the costs to the individuals under §203.22 and §203.30 before these amendments and there is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mr. Robbins at P.O. Box 12217 Capital Station, Austin, Texas 78711-1440, (512) 479-5064 (fax), or electronically to chet.robbins@tfsc.state.tx.us.

The amendments to §203.22 and §203.30 are proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §651.152. The commission interprets §651.152 as authorizing it to adopt rules as necessary to administer Chapter 651.

No other statutes, articles, or codes are affected by the proposal.

§203.22.Required Documentation for Embalming.

(a) - (i) (No change.)

(j) The embalming case report shall be completed and signed by the licensed embalmer performing the embalming procedure.

§203.30.Continuing Education.

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

(f) Credit Hours Required

(1) Licensed funeral directors and embalmers who actively practice in this state are required to obtain 16 [ 20 ] hours of continuing education every two year renewal period. A licensee may receive credit for a course only once during a renewal period.

(2) (No change.)

(g) Credit Hour Eligibility. The commission will grant the following credit hours toward the continuing education requirements for license renewal.

(1) - (7) (No change.)

[(8) When excessive hours are to be carried over to the next licensing period, the licensee must request and obtain permission in writing to carry over continuing education hours. This request will be kept in the permanent licensing file of the individual.]

(h) Exemptions, waivers, reactivation, and conversion

(1) (No change.)

(2) Individuals licensed in Texas, but not practicing in the state, are required to obtain the 6 mandatory hours of continuing education set forth in this section [ are exempt from the continuing education requirements set forth in this section. ]. Any individual who returns to practice in this state shall, before the next license renewal period, meet the continuing education requirements before resuming any funeral directing and/or embalming activities in the state.

(3) - (7) (No change.)

(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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303228

Cue D. Boykin

Assistant Attorney General

Texas Funeral Service Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 475-4219


22 TAC §203.33

The Texas Funeral Service Commission proposes a new rule at Title 22, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 203, §203.33, relating to Consequences of Criminal Conviction.

The new rule is proposed in order to comply with Texas Government Code, §53.025 which requires state agencies to adopt guidelines (rules) stating why particular crimes relate to a particular profession.

O.C. "Chet" Robbins, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the new rule is in effect, there will be no fiscal implication for the state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering the proposed rule.

Mr. Robbins further has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the new rule is in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be a reduction of the likelihood that a person who exhibits a lack of respect for human life and dignity or a lack of fitness will be licensed as a funeral director or embalmer. There will be no effect on large, small or micro-businesses. The anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with this section will be no more nor less than the costs to the individuals before this new rule and there is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Mr. Robbins at P.O. Box 12217 Capital Station, Austin, Texas 78711-1440, (512) 479-5064 (fax), or electronically to chet.robbins@tfsc.state.tx.us.

The new §203.33 is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, §651.152. The commission interprets §651.152 as authorizing it to adopt rules as necessary to administer Chapter 651.

No other statutes, articles, or codes are affected by the proposal.

§203.33.Consequences of Criminal Conviction.

(a) The commission may suspend or revoke a license, disqualify a person from receiving a license, or deny to a person the opportunity to take a licensing examination on the grounds that the person has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor that directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of an occupation required to be licensed by Texas Occupations Code, chapter 651 (chapter 651).

(b) The commission shall revoke the license of a person who is imprisoned following a felony conviction, felony community supervision revocation, revocation of parole, or revocation of mandatory supervision.

(c) A person in prison is ineligible for licensure.

(d) The commission shall consider the following factors in determining whether a criminal conviction directly relates to an occupation required to be licensed by chapter 651:

(1) the nature and seriousness of the crime;

(2) the relationship of the crime to the purposes for requiring a license to engage in the occupation;

(3) the extent to which a license might offer an opportunity to engage in further criminal activity of the same type as that in which the person previously had been involved; and

(4) the relationship of the crime to the ability, capacity, or fitness required to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of the licensed occupation.

(e) If a person has been convicted of a crime, the commission shall consider the following in determining a person's fitness to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of a chapter 651 occupation:

(1) the extent and nature of the person's past criminal activity;

(2) the age of the person when the crime was committed;

(3) the amount of time that has elapsed since the person's last criminal activity;

(4) the conduct and work activity of the person before and after the criminal activity;

(5) evidence of the person's rehabilitation or rehabilitative effort while incarcerated or after release;

(6) letters of recommendation from:

(A) prosecutors and law enforcement and correctional officers who prosecuted, arrested, or had custodial responsibility for the person;

(B) the sheriff or chief of police in the community where the person resides; and

(C) any other person in contact with the convicted person; and

(7) evidence that the applicant has:

(A) maintained a record of steady employment;

(B) supported the applicant's dependents;

(C) maintained a record of good conduct; and

(D) paid all outstanding court costs, supervision fees, fines, and restitution ordered in any criminal case in which the applicant has been convicted.

(f) The following are related to the occupations of funeral directing or embalming because they are classified as Class B misdemeanors by Occupations Code, §651.602:

(1) acting or holding oneself out as a funeral director, embalmer, or provisional license holder without being licensed under this chapter;

(2) making a first call in a manner that violates §651.401;

(3) engaging in a funeral practice that violates chapter 651 or a rule adopted under chapter 651; or

(4) violating Chapter 154, Finance Code, or a rule adopted under that chapter, regardless of whether the Texas Department of Banking or another governmental agency takes action relating to the violation.

(g) The commission of acts within the definition of Abuse of Corpse, Penal Code, §42.08, is related to the chapter 651 occupations because those acts indicate a lack of respect for the dead.

(h) The crimes listed in paragraphs (1) - (3) of this subsection relate to the chapter 651 occupations because the commission of each reflects a lack of respect for human life and dignity or a lack of fitness to practice the occupations.

(1) a misdemeanor or felony offense involving:

(A) murder;

(B) assault;

(C) burglary;

(D) robbery;

(E) theft;

(F) sexual assault;

(G) injury to a child;

(H) injury to an elderly person;

(I) child abuse or neglect;

(J) tampering with a governmental record;

(K) forgery;

(L) perjury;

(M) failure to report abuse;

(N) bribery;

(O) harassment;

(P) insurance claim fraud;

(Q) solicitation under the Penal Code §38.12(d); or

(R) mail fraud;

(2) delivery, possession, manufacture, or use of or the dispensing or prescribing a controlled substance, dangerous drug, or narcotic; or

(3) violations of the Penal Code, Titles 4, 5, 7, 9, and 10, which indicate an inability or tendency for the person to be unable to perform as a licensee or to be unfit for licensure or registration if action or inaction by the commission will protect the public health, safety, and welfare.

(i) An applicant for licensure shall disclose in writing to the commission any conviction against him or her at the time of application. A current licensee shall disclose in writing to the commission any conviction at the time of renewal or no later than 30 days after judgment in the trial court, whichever date is earlier.

(j) Upon notification of a conviction, the commission shall provide a copy of this section to the person and request that the person respond by filing information demonstrating why the commission should not deny the application or take disciplinary action against the person, if already licensed or registered. The response must be filed with the commission within 21 days of the date of receipt of notice from the commission. An applicant for licensure is responsible for filing documentation that will allow the commission to conduct an analysis under subsection (e) 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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303227

Cue D. Boykin

Assistant Attorney General

Texas Funeral Service Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 475-4219


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 Psychologists. These amendments are being proposed to eliminate the exceptions for persons licensed for more than 15 years in another state, in that other rules have been passed to expedite the licensure of out-of-state licensees.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, 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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303204

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §463.20

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes new §463.20, concerning Refunds of Application and Examination Fees. This new rule is being proposed in order to clarify the situations under which examination and application fees are either refundable or transferable.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§463.20.Refunds of Application and Examination Fees.

(a) Application fees are non-refundable and non- transferable.

(b) The national psychology examination fee is partially refundable if an applicant is scheduled for a computerized exam but fails to take the scheduled examination. A portion of the original examination fee to the Professional Examination Service (PES) for the exam is retained by PES; the remainder of the fee is refunded by PES to the applicant. The portion of the fee that is paid to the Board, which is referred to as the professional fee, is non-refundable. An exception is if the Board approves on a one time basis the transfer of the professional fee to another scheduled examination upon review of documentation from the applicant for extreme extenuating circumstances.

(c) The Jurisprudence examination fee is non-transferable and non-refundable. An exception is that if the applicant fails to return the exam by the postmark deadline date due to a mail delivery problem that the applicant can prove, the Board may approve the transfer of the fee to another take of the exam or refund the fee if a subsequent fee has been paid upon review of the applicant's explanation.

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303205

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


Chapter 469. COMPLAINTS AND ENFORCEMENT

22 TAC §469.1

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.1, concerning Timeliness of Complaints. This amendment is being proposed in order to clarify the situations under which the 10 year statute of limitations for the filing of a complaint applies.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.1.Timeliness of Complaints.

A complaint is timely filed if it is received by the Board, in proper form, within five years of the date of the termination of professional services. A complaint alleging sexual misconduct, [ as defined by the Board rules, ] by a licensee [ or alleging the infliction of physical harm upon a client or patient by a licensee ] is timely filed if received within ten years of the termination of services or the patient's reaching the age of majority [ occurrence of the allegations ].

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303206

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.3

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.3, concerning Standardized Complaint Form. This amendment is being proposed in order to clarify the ways in which a complaint may be submitted to the Board. In addition, subsection (d) is being deleted because the signing of a release is not essential to the investigation of all complaints.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.3.Standardized Complaint Form.

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

(c) The complaint form must be physically delivered to the Board office, mailed to the Board's offices, or faxed to the Board. [ in person or by mail service to be considered filed. Fax transmittal and or E-mail do not constitute physical delivery. ]

[ (d) All required release forms must be signed, witnessed and returned to the Board, along with the complaint form, before a complaint can be processed. ]

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303207

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.4

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.4, concerning Complaint Investigation. This amendment is being proposed in order to (1) properly identify the name of the division that investigates complaints, (2) comply with the statutory requirement that the basis for a dismissal be provided to the complainant, and (3) accurately reflect the current procurement requirements.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.4.Complaint Investigation.

(a) (No change.)

(b) The Enforcement [ Investigation ] Division shall investigate [ dispose of ] all complaints in a timely manner. A schedule shall be established for conducting each phase of a complaint that is under the control of the Board not later than the 30th day after the date the complaint is received by the Board. The schedule shall be kept in the information file of the complaint, and all parties shall be notified of the projected time requirements for pursuing the complaint. A change in the schedule must be noted in the complaint information file, and all parties to the complaint must be notified in writing not later than the seventh day after the date the change is made.

(c) The Board will dismiss complaints at a regularly scheduled Board Meeting. Any person who files a complaint will be notified by letter of Board action to dismiss the complaint and the legal basis and/or reason for the dismissal .

(d) The services of a private investigator shall be retained only in the event that staff investigator positions are vacant or inadequate to provide essential investigative services. The services of a private investigative agency shall be obtained in accordance with the state's procurement procedures [ of the General Services Commission ].

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303208

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.5

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.5, concerning Complaint Disposition. This amendment is being proposed in order to (1) properly identify the name of the division that investigates complaints, (2) to clarify how complaints that do not state a violation are resolved.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.5.Complaint Disposition.

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

(c) Complaints that do not state a violation of the Board's Act or rules shall be dismissed [ returned to the complainant ]. If the complaint alleges a violation of another agency's Act or rules, the complaint shall be referred to the appropriate agency.

(d) Complaints that state a violation of the Board's Act and rules shall be investigated by an investigator assigned by the Manager of the Enforcement [ Investigation ] Division.

(e) (No change.)

(f) The Enforcement [ Investigation ] Division Manager and the counsel for the Board shall review the investigation report, evidence and the case file of the complaint to determine if there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate a violation of the Board's Act, rules, or order to recommend probable cause to the Board.

(g) A complaint for which the staff determines probable cause shall be referred to a Disciplinary Review Panel of the Board for an informal conference. [ Counsel for the ] The Board shall serve the Respondent with a Notice of Violation [ Violations ] and Informal Settlement Conference.

(h) (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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303209

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.6

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.6, concerning Temporary Suspension of a License. This amendment is being proposed in order to clarify the statutory requirements for the composition of a temporary suspension committee.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.6.Temporary Suspension of a License.

(a) An executive committee of the Board, consisting of the Board Chair, and two other Board members [ Complaints Committee Chair, and a public member, ] shall temporarily suspend the license of a licensee under the Act if the executive committee determines, based on evidence or information presented to the committee, that the continued practice by the licensee constitutes a continuing or imminent threat to the public welfare.

(b)-(e) (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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303210

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.7

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.7, concerning Persons with Criminal Backgrounds. This amendment is being proposed in order to (1) provide the appropriate statutory references for persons with criminal backgrounds and (2) clarify those crimes about which the Board may take notice in deciding what sanctions, if any, should be imposed on the licensee or applicant.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.7.Persons with Criminal Backgrounds.

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

(c) In determining whether a criminal conviction directly relates to the performance of a licensee, the Board shall consider the factors listed in the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53 [ Civil Statutes, Article 6252.13c(4)(b) ].

(d) Those crimes which the Board considers as directly related to the performance of a licensee include but are not limited to:

(1) a misdemeanor and/or felony offense under the following titles of the Texas Penal Code: [ any felony or misdemeanor of which fraud, dishonesty, or deceit is an essential element; ]

(A) Title 5, pertaining to offenses against the person (for example, homicide, kidnapping, sexual offenses, and assaultive offenses);

(B) Title 7, pertaining to offenses against property (for example, arson, robbery, burglary, theft, fraud, money laundering, and insurance fraud);

(C) Title 8, pertaining to offenses against public administration (for example, bribery, perjury, and obstruction of justice);

(D) Title 9, pertaining to offenses against public order and decency (for example, disorderly conduct and public indecency);

(E) Title 10, pertaining to offenses against public health and safety (for example, weapons offenses, gambling, and intoxication offenses); and

(F) Title 4, pertaining to the offenses of attempting or conspiring to commit the offenses listed in subsections (a) - (e) of this section.

(2)-(4) (No change.)

(5) any offense involving the failure to report abuse; [ murder ;]

(6) any state or federal drug offense, including violations of the Controlled Substances and Dangerous Drugs Act; and [ burglary ;]

(7) any other misdemeanor or felony that the Board may consider in order to promote the public safety and welfare, as well as the intent of the Act and these rules. [ robbery ;]

[ (8) rape;]

[ (9) theft; ]

[ (10) child molesting;]

[ (11) substance abuse.]

(e) In determining whether a criminal conviction directly affects a person's present fitness [ activity ], the Board shall consider the factors listed in Texas Occupations Code, Section 53.023 [ Civil Statutes, Article 6252-13c(4)(c)(1)-(6) ].

(f)-(g) (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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303211

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.8

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.8, concerning Rehabilitation Guidelines. This amendment is being proposed in order to clarify that a licensee who has been revoked or suspended must address all outstanding complaints before the rehabilitation program can begin.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.8.Rehabilitation Guidelines.

(a) In the event of revocation or suspension of a license due to non-compliance with the rules of the Board and/or its ethical principles, the Board, in its discretion, may implement a plan of rehabilitation. The plan shall outline the steps the person must follow in order to be considered for relicensure or removal of suspension. Completion of the plan may lead to consideration of submission of an application for relicensure; removal of suspension; removal of supervision requirements. In the event the licensee has not met the Board's criteria for rehabilitation, the plan may be revised, expanded, and/or continued depending upon the progress of the rehabilitation program. The licensee, before beginning the options outlined in subsection (b) of this section, must address any outstanding or after-acquired complaints.

(b) The Board may follow one or more options in devising a rehabilitation program:

(1) The individual may be supervised in all or selected areas of activities related to his/her practice as a licensee by a licensed psychologist approved by the Board for a specified length of time.

(A) The Board will specify the focus of the supervision.

(B) The Board will specify the number of hours per week required in a face-to-face supervisory contract.

(C) The supervisor will provide periodic and timely reports to the Board concerning the progress of the supervisee.

(D) Any fees for supervision time will be the responsibility of the supervisee.

[ (E) The supervisor is acting as a 'friend' of the Board. Judgements of the supervisor are to be made independently and without reference to Board opinions.]

(2)-(4) (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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303212

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.13

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.13, concerning Non-compliance with Continuing Education Requirements. This amendment is being proposed in order to properly identify the name of the division that investigates complaints.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.13.Non-compliance with Continuing Education Requirements.

(a) (No change.)

(b) Any licensee who has failed to submit proof of full compliance with §461.11 of this title (relating to Continuing Education) shall be referred to the Enforcement [ investigation ] division pursuant to a complaint for non- compliance with §461.15 of this title (relating to Compliance with Act, Rules, Board Directives and Orders) on the forty-fifth day after the original renewal date for the license. The filing of a complaint under this provision shall be in addition to any penalties or requirements assessed by the licensing division for renewal.

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303213

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.14

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §469.14, concerning Monitoring of Licensees. This amendment is being proposed in order to properly identify the Board Committee that performs compliance monitoring.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.14.Monitoring of Licensees.

(a) The Compliance Committee [ Division ] is responsible for monitoring licensees who are ordered by the Board to perform certain acts. The Compliance Committee [ Division ] ascertains that the licensee performs the required acts within the designated time period.

(b) The Compliance Committee [ Division ] is responsible for implementing the preventive approach of the Board to enforcement of the Act and the Rules of the Board by identifying and monitoring licensees who represent a risk to the public.

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303214

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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


22 TAC §469.15

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes new §469.15, concerning Disciplinary Action for persons with Dual Licensure. This new rule is being proposed to clarify that disciplinary action against a license is considered disciplinary action against all licenses the licensee holds with the agency.

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 Brenda Skiff, 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 statues, articles, or codes.

§469.15.Disciplinary Action for Persons with Dual Licensure.

Disciplinary Action for Persons with Dual Licensure. A disciplinary action taken by the Board against a licensee is considered a disciplinary action against all licenses that the licensee holds with the Board.

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 May 23, 2003.

TRD-200303215

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 13, 2003

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