TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 2. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF BARBER EXAMINERS

Chapter 51. PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

Subchapter B. BARBER COLLEGES, SCHOOLS, AND STUDENTS

22 TAC §51.12

The Texas State Board of Barber Examiners proposes an amendment to §51.12 concerning the requirement that a proposed new barber school or college be inspected to determine that it fulfills all requirements of the Board and of the Texas Barber Law. The Board proposes to require that the Board receive payment of the required initial inspection or re-inspection fee before the inspection will be scheduled.

The action is proposed to expedite the school inspection process and to ensure that payment is received before an inspection is scheduled to be conducted.

Glenn Parker, 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

Mr. Parker has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is to be in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be an increase in the efficiency of the Board's school inspection process. There will be no costs to small or large businesses, or to individuals associated with the enforcement of the proposed rule.

Comments on the proposed rule may be submitted in writing within 30 days after publication of the proposal in the Texas Register to Glenn Parker, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Barber Examiners, 5717 Balcones Drive, Suite 217, Austin, Texas 78731-4203.

The amendment is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1601.151, Chapter 1601.155, Chapter 1601.353, and Chapter 1601.356 which provide the Texas State Board of Barber Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce all rules necessary for the performance of its duties, to set fees in amounts necessary to cover the costs of administering programs to which the fees relate, and to require inspections of schools before they go into operation.

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

§51.12.Inspection of New Barber School or College.

Two board members or one board member and the board's executive director shall inspect a proposed new barber school or college to determine that it [ is ] fulfills all requirements of the board and of the Texas Barber Law[ , §9 ]. The payment of the required inspection (permit) fee or the re-inspection fee must be received by the board before the initial inspection or re-inspection will be scheduled.

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403138

Glenn D. Parker

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Barber Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

For further information, please call: (512) 936-6310


Subchapter D. BARBER SHOPS

22 TAC §51.98

The Texas State Board of Barber Examiners proposes an amendment to §51.98 concerning fees to be collected from licensees or prospective licensees related to providing online services through the Texas Online Authority related to obtaining or renewing certain licenses and permits through the use of the Internet.

The action is proposed in response to the Texas Online Authority's instructions to the Board of Barber Examiners to begin the collection of new fees related to specific types of licenses or permits, under authority granted to the Texas Online Authority by Senate Bill 187, 77th Texas Legislature, Regular Session; Senate Bill 645, 77th Texas Legislature, Regular Session; and by Senate Bill 1152, 78th Texas Legislature, Regular Session.

Glenn Parker, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. There will be an impact to state government in that both general revenue and expenditures will increase by the amount of the fees that are collected during each fiscal year of the five year period.

Mr. Parker has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is to be in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be an increase in the ability of Board licensees to more efficiently apply for or renew certain licenses or permits. There will be no direct costs to the general public. Board licensees will pay an increase in fees equal to the cost of the fees for specific types of licenses or permits. There will be an increase in costs for those small businesses that are barber shops or specialty (manicurist) shops equal to the fees imposed for those licenses or permits.

Comments on the proposed rule may be submitted in writing within 30 days after publication of the proposal in the Texas Register to Glenn Parker, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Barber Examiners, 5717 Balcones Drive, Suite 217, Austin, Texas 78731-4203.

The amendment is proposed under the Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1601.151 and Chapter 1601.155 which provide the Texas State Board of Barber Examiners with the authority to adopt and enforce all rules necessary for the performance of its duties and to set fees in amounts necessary to cover the costs of administering programs to which the fees relate.

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

§51.98.State-Mandated Texas Online Authority Fees [ Fee ] for Occupational Licensing Transactions [ Using the Internet ].

As required by Senate Bill 187, and Senate Bill 645, 77th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, and by Senate Bill 1152, 78th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, specified licensees and permitees [ each licensee, upon renewal, ] shall pay the following State-Mandated Texas Online Authority Fees [ Fee ] for Occupational Licensing Transactions. [ Using the Internet: $6 for a barber; $3 for a manicurist. This fee is in addition to the renewal fee. ] These fees are in addition to the original license or permit fees and the license or permit renewal fees.

(1) Class A Registered Barber License - Original $6

(2) Class A Registered Barber License - Renewal $6

(3) Barber Technician - Original $6

(4) Barber Technician - Renewal n/a

(5) Manicurist License - Original $3

(6) Manicurist License - Renewal $3

(7) Barber Shop Permit - Original $4

(8) Barber Shop Permit - Renewal $4

(9) Manicure (Specialty) Shop Permit - Original $4

(10) Manicure (Specialty) Shop Permit - Renewal $4

(11) Booth Rental Permit - Original $4

(12) Booth Rental Permit - Renewal $4

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403137

Glenn D. Parker

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Barber Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

For further information, please call: (512) 936-6310


Part 17. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS

Chapter 361. ADMINISTRATION

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

22 TAC §361.1

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Board) proposes amendments to Board rule §361.1, which provides definitions of terms used in the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules.

The proposed amendments to §361.1 do not add new requirements, but are necessary due to the codification of the Plumbing License Law (Law) during the 78th Legislative Regular Session, moving the Law from Vernon's Civil Statutes, Article 6243-101 to Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code. References in the rule made to sections of Vernon's Civil Statutes, Article 6243-101 are proposed to be changed to references in Chapter 1301 of the Occupations Code. The amendments also clarify that the Board's Chief Field Representative is also the Board's Director of Enforcement.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal impact on state and local government as well as small businesses and persons required to comply with these rules amendments.

Mr. Maxwell also has determined that each year of the first five years the rules are effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be that the Board Rule will not be in conflict with state law.

Comments on the proposed rule changes may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule amendments in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments to §361.1 are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §1301.251 and the rule it amends. §1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law.

No other statute, article or code is affected by this proposed amendment. The proposed amendment has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the state agency's authority to adopt.

§361.1.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this part, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Act--The Plumbing License Law, Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code [ Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6243-101 ], as amended.

(2) Administrative Act--The Administrative Procedure Act, the Texas Government Code, §2001.001, et seq, as amended.

(3) Administrator--The Board-appointed executive director of all Board staff.

(4) Adopted Plumbing Code--A plumbing code, including a fuel gas code adopted by the Board or a political subdivision, including any city, town, village, municipality, public water system, municipal utility district, in compliance with §1301.255 and §1301.551 of the Plumbing License Law [ §5B of the Act ].

(5) Advisory Committee--A Board appointed committee subject to § 1301.258 of the Plumbing License Law, §361.12 of these rules [ 5(f) of the Act ] and Chapter 2110 of the Government Code, of which the primary function is to advise the Board.

(6) Appliance Connection--An appliance connection procedure using only a code approved appliance connector that does not require cutting into or altering the existing plumbing system.

(7) Applicant--An individual seeking to obtain a License, Registration or Endorsement.

(8) Board--The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.

(9) Board Member--An individual appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate to serve on the Board.

(10) Building Sewer--The part of the sanitary drainage system outside of the building, which extends from the end of the building drain to a public sewer, private sewer, private sewage disposal system, or other point of sewage disposal.

(11) Certificate of Insurance--a form submitted to the Board certifying that the Responsible Master Plumber carries insurance coverage as specified in § 1301.522 of the Plumbing License Law [ 15 of the Act ] and §367.3 of these Rules.

(12) Chief Examiner--an employee of the Board who, under the direction of the Administrator, coordinates and supervises the activities of the Board examinations and registrations.

(13) Chief Field Representative-- the Director of Enforcement who is an employee of the Board who meets the definition of "Field Representative" and, under the direction of the Executive Director [ Administrator ], coordinates and supervises the activities of the Field Representatives.

(14) Cleanout--A fitting, other than a p-trap, approved by the adopted plumbing code and designed to be installed in a sanitary drainage system to allow easy access for cleaning the sanitary drainage system.

(15) Code-Approved Appliance Connector--A semi-rigid or flexible assembly of tube and fittings approved by the adopted plumbing code and designed for connecting an appliance to the existing plumbing system without cutting into or altering the existing plumbing system.

(16) Code Approved Existing Opening--For the purposes of drain cleaning activities described in § 1301.002(3) of the Plumbing License Law [ 2(13) of the Act ], a code approved existing opening is any existing cleanout fitting, inlet of any p-trap or fixture, or vent terminating into the atmosphere that has been approved and installed in accordance with the adopted plumbing code.

(17) Complaint--A written charge alleging a violation of state law, Board rules or orders, local codes or ordinances, or standards of competency; or the presence of fraud, false information, or error in the attempt to obtain a License, Registration or Endorsement.

(18) Contested Case--A proceeding, including but not limited to rulemaking, licensing and registering, in which the agency determines the legal right, duties, and privileges of a party after allowing an opportunity for adjudicative hearing of the case.

(19) Continuing Professional Education--Board-approved courses/programs required for a licensee to renew his or her License and/or Endorsement.

(20) Direct Supervision--

(A) The on-the-job oversight and direction of a Registered Plumber's Apprentice performing plumbing work by a licensed plumber who is fulfilling his or her responsibility to the client and employer by ensuring the following:

(i) that the plumbing materials for the job are properly prepared prior to assembly according to the material manufacturers recommendations and the requirements of the adopted plumbing code; and

(ii) that the plumbing work for the job is properly installed to protect health and safety by meeting the requirements of the adopted plumbing code and all requirements of local and state ordinances, regulations and laws.

(B) The on-the-job oversight and direction by a licensed Plumbing Inspector of an individual training to qualify for the Plumbing Inspector Examination.

(C) For plumbing work performed only in the construction of a new one-family or two-family dwelling in an unincorporated area of the state, a Responsible Master Plumber is not required to provide for the continuous or uninterrupted on-the-job oversight of a Registered Plumber's Apprentice's work by a licensed plumber, however, the Responsible Master Plumber must:

(i) provide for the training and management of the Registered Plumber's Apprentice by a licensed plumber;

(ii) provide for the review and inspection of the Registered Plumber's Apprentice's work by a licensed plumber to ensure compliance with subparagraph (A)(i) and (ii) of this paragraph; and

(iii) upon request by the Board, provide the name and plumber's license number of the licensed plumber who is providing on-the-job training and management of the Registered Plumber's Apprentice and who is reviewing and inspecting the Registered Plumber's Apprentice's work on the job, or the name and plumber's license number of the licensed plumber who trained and managed the Registered Plumber's Apprentice and who reviewed and inspected the Registered Plumber's Apprentice's work on a job.

(21) Drain Cleaner--An individual who has completed at least 4,000 hours working under the supervision of a Master Plumber as a registered Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registrant, who has fulfilled the requirements of and is registered with the Board, and who installs cleanouts and removes and resets p-traps to eliminate obstructions in building drains and sewers.

(22) Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registrant--An individual who has worked as a registered Plumber's Apprentice under the supervision of a Master Plumber, who has fulfilled the requirements of and is registered with the Board, and who clears obstructions in sewer and drain lines through any code-approved existing opening.

(23) Endorsement--a certification issued by the Board in addition to the Master or Journeyman Plumber License.

(24) Field Representative--for the purposes of these Rules,

(A) "Field Representative" means an employee of the Board who is:

(i) knowledgeable of this Act and of municipal ordinances relating to plumbing;

(ii) qualified by experience and training in good plumbing practice and compliance with this Act;

(iii) designated by the Board to assist in the enforcement of this Act and rules adopted under this Act.

(B) A field representative may:

(i) Make on-site license and registration checks to determine compliance with this Act;

(ii) investigate consumer complaints filed under § 1301.303 of the Plumbing License Law [ 8A of this Act ];

(iii) assist municipal plumbing inspectors in cooperative enforcement of this Act; and

(iv) issue citations as provided by § 1301.502 of the Plumbing License Law [ 14 of this Act ].

(25) Journeyman Plumber--An individual licensed under this Act who has met the qualifications for registration as a Plumber's Apprentice or for licensure as a Tradesman Plumber-Limited Licensee, who has completed at least 8,000 hours working under the supervision of a master plumber, who supervises, engages in, or works at the actual installation, alteration, repair, service and renovating of plumbing, and who has successfully fulfilled the examinations and requirements of the Board.

(26) License--A document issued by the Board to certify that the named individual fulfilled the requirements of the Act and of these rules to hold a license issued by the Board.

(27) Licensing and Registering--The process of granting, denying, renewing, revoking, or suspending a License, Registration or Endorsement.

(28) Maintenance Man or Maintenance Engineer--An employee, as opposed to an independent contractor, who performs plumbing maintenance work incidental to and in connection with other duties. "Incidental to and in connection with" includes the repair, maintenance and replacement of existing potable water piping, existing sanitary waste and vent piping, existing plumbing fixtures and existing water heaters. "Incidental to and in connection with" does not include cutting into fuel gas plumbing systems and the installation of gas fueled water heaters. An individual who erects, builds, or installs plumbing not already in existence may not be classified as a maintenance man or maintenance engineer. Plumbing work performed by a maintenance man or maintenance engineer is not exempt from state law and municipal rules and ordinances regarding plumbing codes, plumbing permits and plumbing inspections. Such maintenance individuals shall not engage in plumbing work for the general public.

(29) Master Plumber--An individual licensed under this Act who is skilled in the planning, superintending, and the practical installation, repair, and service of plumbing, who secures permits for plumbing work, who is knowledgeable about the codes, ordinances, or rules and regulations governing those matters, who alone, or through an individual or individuals under his supervision, performs plumbing work, and who has successfully fulfilled the examinations and requirements of the Board.

(30) Medical Gas Piping Installation Endorsement--a document entitling the holder of a Master or Journeyman Plumber License to install piping that is used solely to transport gases used for medical purposes including, but not limited to oxygen, nitrous oxide, medical air, nitrogen, medical vacuum.

(31) One Family Dwelling--a detached structure designed for the residence of a single family that does not have the characteristics of a multiple family dwelling, and is not primarily designed for transient guests or for providing services for rehabilitative, medical, or assisted living in connection with the occupancy of the structure.

(32) Party--Each person named or admitted in association with an action as a party.

(33) Paid Directly--As related to § 1301.255(e) of the Plumbing License Law [ 5B(e) of the Act ] and §365.1(4)(B) of these Rules, "paid" and "directly" have the common meanings and "paid directly" means that compensation for plumbing inspections must be paid by the political subdivision to the individual Licensed Plumbing Inspector who performed the plumbing inspections.

(34) Person--For the purposes of these Rules only, a person means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, association, governmental subdivision or public or private organization of any character other than an agency.

(35) Petitioner--A person asking the Board to adopt a rule.

(36) Plumber's Apprentice--any individual other than a Master Plumber, Journeyman Plumber, or Tradesman Plumber-Limited Licensee who, as his or her principal occupation, is engaged in learning and assisting in the installation of plumbing, is registered by the Board, and works under the supervision of a licensed Master Plumber and the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.

(37) Plumbing--All piping, fixtures, appurtenances, and appliances, including disposal systems, drain or waste pipes, or any combination of these that: supply, recirculate, drain, or eliminate water, gas, medical gasses and vacuum, liquids, and sewage for all personal or domestic purposes in and about buildings where persons live, work, or assemble; connect the building on its outside with the source of water, gas, or other liquid supply, or combinations of these, on the premises, or the water main on public property; and carry waste water or sewage from or within a building to the sewer service lateral on public property or the disposal or septic terminal that holds private or domestic sewage. The installation, repair, service, maintenance, alteration, or renovation of all piping, fixtures, appurtenances, and appliances on premises where persons live, work, or assemble that supply gas, medical gasses and vacuum, water, liquids, or any combination of these, or dispose of waste water or sewage.

(38) Plumbing Company--A person, as defined in these Rules, who engages in the plumbing business.

(39) Plumbing Inspection--Any of the inspections required in § 1301.255 and §1301.551 of the Plumbing License Law [ 5B and §15(a) of the Act ], including any check of pipes, faucets, tanks, valves, water heaters, plumbing fixtures and appliances by and through which a supply of water, gas, medical gasses or vacuum, or sewage is used or carried that is performed on behalf of any political subdivision, public water supply, municipal utility district, town, city or municipality to ensure compliance with the adopted plumbing and gas codes and ordinances regulating plumbing.

(40) Plumbing Inspector--means any individual who is employed by a political subdivision, or who contracts as an independent contractor with a political subdivision, for the purpose of inspecting plumbing work and installations in connection with health and safety laws, ordinances, and plumbing and gas codes, who has no financial or advisory interests in any plumbing company, and who has successfully fulfilled the examinations and requirements of the Board.

(41) Pocket Card--A card issued by the Board which certifies that the holder has a Master Plumber License, Journeyman Plumber License, Tradesman Plumber-Limited License, Plumbing Inspector License, Residential Utilities Installer Registration, Drain Cleaner Registration, Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration or a Plumber's Apprentice Registration..

(42) Political Subdivision--A political subdivision of the State of Texas that includes a:

(A) city;

(B) county;

(C) school district;

(D) junior college district;

(E) municipal utility district;

(F) levee improvement district;

(G) drainage district;

(H) irrigation district;

(I) water improvement district;

(J) water control improvement district;

(K) water control preservation district;

(L) freshwater supply district;

(M) navigation district;

(N) conservation and reclamation district;

(O) soil conservation district;

(P) communication district;

(Q) public health district;

(R) river authority; and

(S) any other governmental entity that:

(i) embraces a geographical area with a defined boundary;

(ii) exists for the purpose of discharging functions of government and;

(iii) possesses authority for subordinate self government through officers selected by it.

(43) P-Trap--A fitting connected to the sanitary drainage system for the purpose of preventing the escape of sewer gasses from the sanitary drainage system and designed to be removed to allow for cleaning of the sanitary drainage system. For the purposes of drain cleaning activities described in § 1301.002(2) of the Plumbing License Law [ 2(12) of the Act ], a p-trap includes any integral trap of a water closet, bidet, or urinal.

(44) Public Water System--A system for the provision to the public of water for human consumption through pipes or other constructed conveyances. Such a system must have at least 15 service connections or serve at least 25 individuals at least 60 days out of the year. Two or more systems with each having a potential to serve less than 15 connections or less than 25 individuals, but owned by the same person, firm, or corporation and located on adjacent land will be considered a public water system when the total potential service connections in the combined systems are 15 or greater or if the total number of individuals served by the combined systems total 25 or greater, at least 60 days out of the year. Without excluding other meanings of the terms "individual" or "served," an individual shall be deemed to be served by a water system if the individual lives in, uses as the individual's place of employment, or works in a place to which drinking water is supplied from the water system.

(45) Regularly Employed--Steadily, uniformly, or habitually working in an employer-employee relationship with a view of earning a livelihood, as opposed to working casually or occasionally.

(46) Residential Utilities Installer--means an individual who has completed at least 2,000 hours working under the supervision of a Master Plumber as a registered Plumber's Apprentice, who has fulfilled the requirements of and is registered with the Board, and who constructs and installs yard water service piping for one-family or two-family dwellings and building sewers.

(47) Respondent--A person charged in a complaint filed with the Board.

(48) Responsible Master Plumber--A Responsible Master Plumber is the Master Plumber who allows his Master Plumber License to be used by a company for the purpose of performing plumbing work and obtaining the required plumbing permits. The Master Plumber by allowing his license to be used in this manner, assumes responsibility for all plumbing work performed. A Responsible Master Plumber may allow his Master Plumber License to be used by only one plumbing company.

(49) Rule--An agency statement of general applicability that implements, interprets, or prescribes law or policy, or describes the procedure or practice requirements of the agency. The term includes the amendment or repeal of a prior rule but does not include statements concerning only the internal management or organization of the agency and not affecting private rights or procedures.

(50) Supervision--the general on-the-job or off-the-job oversight, direction and management of plumbing work and individuals performing plumbing work by a Responsible Master Plumber who is fulfilling his or her responsibility to the client and employer by ensuring the following:

(A) that the operations of the plumbing company that has secured his or her services meets the requirements of all applicable local and state ordinances, regulations and laws; and

(B) that the plumbing work performed under his or her License will protect health and safety by meeting the requirements of the adopted plumbing code and all requirements of local and state ordinances, regulations and laws.

(51) System--An interconnection between one or more public or private end users of water, gas, sewer, or disposal systems that could endanger public health if improperly installed.

(52) Tradesman Plumber-Limited Licensee--means an individual who has completed at least 4,000 hours working under the direct supervision of a Journeyman or Master Plumber as a registered Plumber's Apprentice, who has passed the required examination and fulfilled the other requirements of the Board, who constructs and installs plumbing for one-family or two-family dwellings, and who has not met or attempted to meet the qualifications for a Journeyman Plumber License.

(53) Two Family Dwelling--a detached structure with separate means of egress designed for the residence of two families ("duplex") that does not have the characteristics of a multiple family dwelling and is not primarily designed for transient guests or for providing services for rehabilitative, medical, or assisted living in connection with the occupancy of the structure.

(54) Water Supply Protection Specialist--a Master or Journeyman Plumber who holds the Water Supply Protection Specialist Endorsement issued by the Board.

(55) Water Treatment--A business conducted under contract that requires experience in the analysis of water, including the ability to determine how to treat influent and effluent water, to alter or purify water, and to add or remove a mineral, chemical, or bacterial content or substance. The term also includes the installation and service of potable water treatment equipment in public or private water systems and making connections necessary to complete installation of a water treatment system.

(56) Work as a Master Plumber--To act as and assume the responsibilities of a Responsible Master Plumber, as defined in these Rules.

(57) Yard Water Service Piping--The building supply piping carrying potable water from the water meter or other source of water supply to the point of connection to the water distribution system at the building.

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403082

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


22 TAC §361.6

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners proposes amendments to §361.6, which specifies certain fees charged by the Board, including the fees for initial applications for licenses, endorsements, and registrations as well as examination fees.

The proposed amendments to §361.6 are in compliance with Senate Bill 1152 (78th Legislature, Regular Session) which requires state occupational licensing agencies, including the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, to collect original application and initial license, endorsement and registration fees to pay for the development and use of "Texas Online", a state web site for electronic occupational license transactions. The Texas Online Authority has advised the Board that the online original applications for licenses and registrations will be implemented by September 1, 2004. The Texas Online Authority is requiring the Board to begin collecting the additional fees on September 1, 2004. The original license and registration fees that were set by the Texas Online Authority are:

Master Plumber initial license fee to increase by $5 (from $175 to $180)

Journeyman Plumber initial license fee to increase by $2 (from $25 to $27)

Medical gas installation endorsement (Master) initial fee to increase by $5 (from $50 to $55)

Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman) initial fee to increase by $2 (from 12 to $14)

Plumbing Inspector initial license fee to increase by $5 (from $50 to $55)

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman) initial fee to increase by $2 (from $12 to $14)

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master) initial fee to increase by $5 (from $50 to $55)

Tradesman Plumber-Limited License initial license fee to increase by $2 (from $25 to $27)

Plumber's Apprentice Registration application and initial registration fee to increase by $2 (from $10 to $12)

Residential Utilities Installer Registration application and initial registration fee to increase by $2 (from $10 to $12)

Drain Cleaner Registration application and initial registration fee to increase by $2 (from $10 to $12)

Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration application and initial registration fee to increase by $2 (from $10 to $12)

Master Plumber examination fee to increase by $5 (from $150 to $155)

Journeyman Plumber examination fee to increase by $2 (from $25 to $27)

Medical gas installation endorsement (Master) examination fee to increase by $5 (from $75 to $80)

Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman) examination fee to increase by $2 (from $25 to $27)

Plumbing inspector examination fee to increase by $5 (from $50 to $55)

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman) examination fee to increase by $2 (from $25 to $27)

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master) examination fee to increase by $5 (from $75 to $80)

Tradesman Plumber-Limited License examination fee to increase by $2 (from $25 to $27)

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that there will be a fiscal impact for persons required to comply with these rule amendments. For the first five-year period that the rules are in effect, persons who submit applications for the following examination or initial license, endorsement or registration will pay increased fees in the following amounts:

Master Plumber initial license $25

Journeyman Plumber initial license $10

Medical gas installation endorsement (Master) initial endorsement $25

Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman) initial endorsement $10

Plumbing Inspector initial license $25

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman) initial endorsement $10

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master) initial endorsement $25

Tradesman Plumber-Limited License initial license $10

Plumber's Apprentice Registration application and initial registration $10

Residential Utilities Installer Registration application and initial registration $10

Drain Cleaner Registration application and initial registration $10

Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration application and initial registration $10

Master Plumber examination $25

Journeyman Plumber examination $10

Medical gas installation endorsement (Master) examination $25

Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman) examination $10

Plumbing inspector examination $25

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman) examination $10

Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master) examination $25

Tradesman Plumber-Limited License examination $10

Mr. Maxwell has also determined that each year of the first five years the rules are in effect there should be no mandated fiscal impact on local government or state government as well as small businesses. Any local governments or small businesses that choose to pay the fees for any of their employees who hold a license or registration will be impacted by the amount of the fee increases. Neither local governments nor small business are required by state law or this rule to pay the fees of their employees. The public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be the ability for individuals to apply for original licenses, endorsements and registrations described above using the Internet and paying with a credit card. The Board will also expend fewer resources processing applications, which will allow the Board to use the saved resources to provide better customer service to the public and all of its licensees and registrants.

Comments on the proposed rule changes may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule amendments in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments to §361.6 are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §1301.251, §1301.253 the rule it amends and Senate Bill 1152 (78th Legislature, Regular Session). Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. Section 1301.253 requires the Board to set fee amounts that are reasonable and necessary to cover the costs of administering the Act, Senate Bill 1152 (78th Legislature, Regular Session) requires state occupational licensing agencies, including the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, to collect original application and initial license, endorsement and registration fees to pay for the development and use of "Texas Online", a state web site for electronic occupational license transactions.

No other statute, article or code is affected by this proposed amendment. The proposed amendment has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the state agency's authority to adopt.

§361.6.Fees.

(a) The Board has established the following fees:

(1) Initial Licenses, Endorsements and Registrations

(A) Master Plumber license-- $180; [ $175; ]

(B) Journeyman Plumber license-- $27; [ $25; ]

(C) Medical gas installation endorsement (Master)-- $55; [ $50; ]

(D) Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman)-- $14; [ $12; ]

(E) Plumbing inspector license-- $55; [ $50; ]

(F) Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman)-- $14; [ $12; ]

(G) Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master)-- $55; [ $50; ]

(H) Tradesman Plumber-Limited License-- $27; [ $25; ]

(I) Plumber's Apprentice Registration/Application-- $12; [ $10; ]

(J) Residential Utilities Installer Registration/Application-- $12; [ $10; ]

(K) Drain Cleaner Registration/Application-- $12; [ $10; ]

(L) Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration/Application-- $12. [ $10. ]

(2) Examinations

(A) Master Plumber examination-- $155; [ $150; ]

(B) Journeyman Plumber examination-- $27; [ $25; ]

(C) Medical gas installation endorsement (Master)-- $80; [ $75; ]

(D) Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman)-- $27; [ $25; ]

(E) Plumbing inspector examination-- $55; [ $50; ]

(F) Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman)-- $27; [ $25; ]

(G) Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master)-- $80; [ $75; ]

(H) Tradesman Plumber-Limited Licensee-- $27. [ $25. ]

(3) Renewals

(A) Master Plumber license--$180;

(B) Journeyman Plumber license--$27;

(C) Medical gas installation endorsement (Master)--$55;

(D) Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman)--$14;

(E) Plumbing inspector license--$55;

(F) Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Journeyman)--$14;

(G) Water supply protection specialist endorsement (Master)--$55;

(H) Plumbing Inspector with a Master and/or Journeyman License--$55;

(I) Master Plumber with Journeyman Plumber License--$180;

(J) Tradesman Plumber-Limited License--$27;

(K) Plumber's Apprentice Registration--$12;

(L) Residential Utilities Installer Registration-- $12;

(M) Drain Cleaner Registration--$12;

(N) Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration--$12.

(4) Other fees

(A) Late renewal

(i) Master Plumber:

(I) less than 90 days--one-half renewal fee--$90;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$180;

(ii) Medical gas installation endorsement (Master):

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$27.50;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$55;

(iii) Medical gas installation endorsement (Journeyman):

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$7;

(II) more than 90 days--renewal fee--$14;

(iv) Journeyman Plumber:

(I) less than 90 days--one-half renewal fee--$13.50;

(II) more than 90 days--renewal fee--$27;

(v) Water supply protection specialist (Journeyman):

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$7;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$14;

(vi) Water supply protection specialist (Master):

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$27.50;

(II) more than 90 days--renewal fee--$55;

(vii) Plumbing Inspector:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$27.50;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$55;

(viii) Master Plumber with Journeyman Plumber:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$90;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$180;

(ix) Plumbing Inspector with Master and/or Journeyman Plumber:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$27.50;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$55;

(x) Tradesman Plumber-Limited License:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$13.50;

(II) more than 90 days--renewal fee--$27;

(xi) Plumber's Apprentice Registration:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$6;

(II) more than 90 days--renewal fee--$12;

(xii) Residential Utilities Installer Registration:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$6;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$12;

(xiii) Drain Cleaner Registration:

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$6;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$12;

(xiv) Drain Cleaner-Restricted Registration :

(I) less than 90 days--one half renewal fee--$6;

(II) more than 90 days-- renewal fee--$12.

(B) Instructor Certification Training (Per Day)--$100.

(C) Duplicate license or registration--$10.

(D) Returned check--$25.

(b) Methods of payment

(1) Fees paid electronically through the Texas Online website, which may be accessed from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners' website, may be made in the form of credit card or check.

(2) Fees paid by mail or in person may be made in the form of money order, cashier's check, personal check, business check, or the exact amount of cash (cash payments by mail are not recommended.

(3) An individual shall pay the appropriate fee prior to the time of examination. For License, Registration, Endorsement, and renewal, the appropriate fee shall be paid prior to issuance of the License, Registration, Endorsement, or renewal.

(4) The board, under any special circumstances it finds appropriate, may:

(A) waive any requirements concerning the method or timing of payment of any fee;

(B) refund any fee; or

(C) waive payment of any fee not required by statute.

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403083

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


Subchapter B. PETITION FOR ADOPTION OF RULES

22 TAC §§361.22 - 361.24, 361.26, 361.27

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

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners proposes the repeal of §§361.22 - 361.24, 361.26 and 361.27 which set forth procedures for complaint investigations and referring contested cases to the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

The repeals are necessary since the rules do not completely reflect the changes made to Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code (Plumbing License Law), during the 78th Legislative Regular Session. The repeal of the rules is proposed in conjunction with the proposal of new rules under Board Rules Chapter 367, which more completely set forth procedures for the Board and its staff to follow from complaint investigations through the contested case hearings under the requirements of the Plumbing License Law and Administrative Procedure Act. The proposed new rules are §§367.8 - 367.14.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal impact on state and local government as well as small businesses and persons as a result of the repeal of these rules.

Mr. Maxwell also has anticipated that each year of the first five years the repeal of the rules are in effect, the public will benefit as a result of repealing these rules in conjunction with the adoption of the new, more complete rules under Chapter 367. The anticipated benefit is the protection of the public health, safety and welfare through fair and equitable enforcement of the Plumbing License Law.

Comments on the proposed rule repeals may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule repeals in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The repeals are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §§1301.251, 1301.303, 1301.451, 1301.502, 1301.504, 1301.5045, 1301.5071, Subchapter N of Chapter 1301, Occupations Code and Chapter 367 of the Board Rules. Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. Section 1301.303 sets forth requirements for complaint investigations. Section 1301.451 sets forth the disciplinary powers of the Board. Section 1301.502 authorizes the issuance of citations according to guidelines adopted by the Board. §1301.504 authorizes the filing of injunctions. Section 1301.5045 authorizes the issuance of cease and desist orders. Section 1301.5071 requires the Board to adopt procedures for conducting informal conferences and authorizes the Board to order restitution. Subchapter N authorizes the Board to impose administrative penalties, sets general procedures for the imposition and collection of the administrative penalties, hearings and appeals. Board Rules Chapter 367 provides for enforcement of the Plumbing License Law, standards of conduct and requirements for licensees and registrants of the Board and persons offering to perform plumbing work and plumbing companies. The repeal of the rules are also proposed under the authority of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001 (Administrative Procedure Act).

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

§361.22.Contested Cases: Hearings.

§361.23.Contested Cases: Notice of Hearing.

§361.24.Contested Cases: Record of Hearing.

§361.26.Contested Cases: Investigations.

§361.27.Rules of Practice and Procedure.

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403089

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


Subchapter C. ELECTION OF BOARD OFFICERS

22 TAC §361.29

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners proposes amendments to Board rule §361.29, which provides for the election of officers to the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Board). The rule requires the Board to elect a chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary.

The proposed amendments to §361.29 are necessary due to amendments made during the 78th Legislative Regular Session to the Plumbing License Law (Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code), which state that the governor may appoint the Board's presiding officer and that the Board may only elect a secretary.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal impact on state and local government as well as small businesses and persons required to comply with these rules amendments.

Mr. Maxwell also has determined that each year of the first five years the rules are effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be that the Board's rules will not be in conflict with the Plumbing License Law.

Comments on the proposed rule changes may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule amendments in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments to §361.29 are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §1301.251, §1301.157 and the rule it amends. Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. Section 1301.157 states that the governor may appoint the Board's presiding officer and that the Board may only elect a secretary.

No other statute, article or code is affected by this proposed amendment. The proposed amendment has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the state agency's authority to adopt.

§361.29.[ Election of ] Board Officers.

(a) The governor shall designate a member of the board as the presiding officer of the Board to serve in that capacity at the pleasure of the governor.

(b) The Board shall elect a secretary from its membership.

(1) The election may be held every two years during the July Board meeting.

(2) The elected Board Secretary shall take office on the first day of September following the election held at the July Board meeting.

(3) If the office becomes vacant for any reason, a special election shall be held at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting to fill the office for the unexpired term. [ Beginning with the July 1997 Board meeting, the Board shall formally elect a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary. Elections will be held every two years. The elected Board officers will take office on the first day of September following the elections held at the July Board meeting. Each elected Board officer shall serve a two-year term. If an office becomes vacant for any reason, a special election will be held at the next regularly scheduled board meeting to fill the office for the unexpired term. ]

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403084

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


Chapter 365. LICENSING AND REGISTRATION

22 TAC §365.14

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Board) proposes amendments to Board rule §365.14, which provides for the Board's recognition, approval and administration of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) programs.

The proposed amendments to §365.14 will change the dates of submission of CPE Course Materials to the Board for its review and possible approval, to allow additional time for Course Material Providers to prepare the drafts of the Course Materials.

The proposed amendments to §365.14 will also clarify that Board registration forms must be included in Course Materials approved by the Board.

Additionally, the proposed amendments to §365.14 will clarify that a Course Instructors shall not allow CPE credit for an individual who does not receive six contact teaching hours of CPE, excluding any breaks from the teaching of CPE.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal impact on state and local government as well as small businesses and persons required to comply with these rules amendments.

Mr. Maxwell also has determined that each year of the first five years the rules are effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be better CPE for licensed plumbers and plumbing inspectors. Public health and safety will benefit from licensed plumbers and plumbing inspectors receiving quality CPE each year, in order to renew their licenses.

Comments on the proposed rule changes may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule amendments in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments to §365.14 are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §1301.251, §1301.404 and the rule it amends. Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. Section 1301.404 requires the Board to recognize, approve and administer CPE for licensees.

No other statute, article or code is affected by this proposed amendment. The proposed amendment has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the state agency's authority to adopt.

§365.14.Continuing Professional Education Programs.

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

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

(2) The Board will periodically publish lists of approved subjects.

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

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

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

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

(A) Binding - Perfect or Metal Coiled,

(B) Ink - Full Bleed Color,

(C) Cover Material - 80 Pound Gloss Paper,

(D) Page Material - 70 Pound

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

(8) All Course Materials must have the following characteristics:

(A) Correct grammar, spelling and punctuation,

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

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

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

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

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

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

(A) name and address of individual applicant,

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

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

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

(E) fees to be charged for Course Materials,

(F) taxpayer identification number,

(13) The provider of Course Materials must sell Course Materials to all Course Providers and Licensees at the same price as stated in the application.

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

(A) failure to comply with the provisions of this section;

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

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

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

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

(17) All providers of Course Materials must meet the following time schedule each year for approval of Course Materials [ to be used for the 2002-2003 CPE years ]:

(A) At least 15 [ 20 ] copies each of the [ final ] draft version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than November 15 [ December 1 ] for Board approval at its January Board meeting.

(B) At least 15 [ 20 ] copies each of the revised [ and completed ] version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than March 15 [ 1 ], for Board approval at its April Board meeting.

(C) At least 15 [ 50 ] copies each of all Course Materials that are approved at the Board's April Board meeting shall be provided to the Board's office in completed form no later than July 1 at no cost to the Board.

[(18) All providers of Course Materials must meet the following time schedule each year for approval of Course Materials to be used for the 2003-2004 and following CPE years:]

[(A) At least 20 copies each of the final draft version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than September 1, for Board approval at its January Board meeting.]

[(B) At least 20 copies each of the revised and completed version of the Course Materials must be submitted to the Board's office no later than March 1, for Board approval at its April Board meeting.]

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

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

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

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

(A) Six classroom hours presented on one day

(B) Two sessions of three classroom hours each presented within a seven day period or

(C) An approved correspondence course.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(9) Each Course Provider shall be reviewed annually by the Board to ensure that classes have been provided equitably across the state of Texas, except as provided in §365.14(b)(15)(J).

(10) Each Course Provider must notify the Board at least 7 days before conducting classes; the notice shall contain the time(s) and place(s) where the classes will occur.

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

(12) Each Course Provider shall use only Course Instructors that have been approved by the Board. Each Course Provider shall annually submit to the Board's office a list of Course Instructors it employs and the instructors' credentials for approval. Initial lists of Course Instructors, to be approved for the 2002-2003 and later CPE years, must be submitted each year no later than March 15 for approval by the Board at its April Board meeting. The Board may approve additional Course Instructors at any regularly scheduled Board meeting.

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

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

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

(A) name and address of individual applicant,

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

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

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

(E) taxpayer identification number,

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

(G) fees to be charged to Licensees for attending the course, considering the following:

(i) If the Course Provider is not also a provider of Course Materials and will purchase Course Materials, the Course Provider may not charge the Licensees more than its actual cost for the Course Materials supplied to the Licensees by the Course Provider.

(ii) The fees charged to the Licensees for attending the course will be determined by the Course Provider.

(H) an example of a Licensee's Certificate of Completion of CPE,

(I) CPE class scheduling plan,

(J) plan for providing courses equitably across the state (the following individuals or businesses will not have to comply with this subparagraph:

(i) Employers applying to be approved as Course Providers for the purpose of providing CPE courses only to the employers' employees, and

(ii) Individuals who will not employ Course Instructors other than themselves),

(K) method for reporting compilations of Licensee evaluations of Course Materials, Course Provider and Course Instructors to the Board, in accordance with the following:

(i) Course Providers shall provide quarterly reports no later than December 15, March 15, June 15 and September 15, for the first year in which the Course Provider provides CPE courses;

(ii) Renewing Course Providers shall provide only annual reports, no later than September 15 of each year, for the preceding CPE course year.

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

(i) any Licensee that lives outside of the State of Texas, or

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

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

(iv) who submits written proof to the Board from a physician stating the medical reason that the licensee is unable to attend a CPE class;

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

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

(A) failure to comply with the provisions of this section;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(A) be well versed in and knowledgeable of the Course Materials,

(B) maintain an orderly and professional classroom environment , [ and ]

(C) ensure that only students who receive six contact hours of instruction (excluding any time spent on breaks from instruction) receive credit for attending the CPE class, and;

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

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

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

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on May 7, 2004.

TRD-200403085

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


Chapter 367. ENFORCEMENT

22 TAC §367.1

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Board) proposes amendments to §367.1, which generally states laws and rules which must be complied with by licensees, registrants, individuals and companies involved in the installation of plumbing. The rule also sets forth authority for enforcement of the Plumbing License Law, Board Rules and plumbing codes.

The proposed amendments are necessary due to the codification of the Plumbing License Law (Law) during the 78th Legislative Regular Session, moving the Law from Vernon's Civil Statutes, Article 6243-101 to Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code. A reference in the rule made to a section of Vernon's Civil Statutes, Article 6243-101 is proposed to be changed to a reference in Chapter 1301 of the Occupations Code.

The proposed amendments are also necessary due to the passage of HB 2661 during the 78th Legislative Regular Session, which provides the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality with rule making authority regarding the use and reuse of graywater. HB 2661 removed authority from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to promulgate greywater rules. The proposed amendments to §367.1 will reflect the change made by HB 2661.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal impact on state and local government as well as small businesses and persons required to comply with the amendments.

Mr. Maxwell also has determined that each year of the first five years the rule is effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be that the Board Rule will not be in conflict with state law.

Comments on the proposed rule changes may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule amendments in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §1301.251, HB 2661 (78th Legislative Regular Session) and the rule it amends. Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. HB 2661 removed authority from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to promulgate greywater rules.

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

§367.1.General Provisions.

(a) - (h) (No change.)

(i) Plumbing installed in compliance with a code adopted under subsection (e), (f), or (h) of this section must be inspected by a plumbing inspector. To perform this inspection, the political subdivision may contract with any plumbing inspector paid directly by the political subdivision. The plumbing inspector must be licensed as required by §§ 1301.255(e), 1301.351(b) and 1301.551 of the Plumbing License Law [ Section 14(a) of the Act ].

(j) (No change.)

[ (k) New construction of a graywater system or modification to an existing graywater system must be carried out in accordance with the rules of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners and the Texas Natural Resource Conservation 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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403086

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


22 TAC §367.3

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Board) proposes amendments to §367.3, which provides certain requirements for plumbing companies and Responsible Master Plumbers.

The proposed amendments to §367.3 are proposed in conjunction with the repeal of §361.26. The proposed amendments will relocate some of the language contained in §361.26 to §367.3, without adding any additional requirements that plumbing companies and Responsible Master Plumbers must currently abide by. The proposed relocated language specifies that Responsible Master Plumbers must include the Board's name, mailing address, telephone number and the Responsible Master Plumber's license number on each written contract.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal impact on state and local government and no additional impact to small businesses and persons required to comply with these current requirements.

Mr. Maxwell also has determined that 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 that the citizens health, safety and welfare will continue to be protected by the citizens ability to know how to contact the agency that regulates plumbing, when the citizens contract with plumbers for plumbing work.

Comments on the proposed rule changes may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed rule amendments in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The amendments are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law" or "Law"), §1301.251, §1301.302 and the rule it amends. Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. Section 1301.302 requires a licensed plumber to include the Board's contact information on written contracts for plumbing services.

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

§367.3.Requirements for Plumbing Companies, Responsible Master Plumbers; Certificate of Insurance.

(a) A company or person offering to do plumbing work must secure the services of at least one Responsible Master Plumber holding a current Master Plumber License.

(1) - (8) (No change.)

(9) Each written contract for plumbing services by the licensed Responsible Master Plumber shall contain the Responsible Master Plumber's License number, the Board's name, mailing address and telephone number. The term "written contract" includes documents used by a plumber or plumbing company to define the scope and cost of the work to be provided to the public. This would include items such as service invoices, billing invoices or any document which defines the services and cost of the services provided to the consumer. For the purposes of this section, the public need not sign the document for it to be considered a contract.

(b) (No change.)

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on May 7, 2004.

TRD-200403087

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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


22 TAC §§367.8 - 367.14

The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Board) proposes new §§367.8 - 367.14, which provides for enforcement of Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code (Plumbing License Law), standards of conduct and requirements for licensees and registrants of the Board and persons offering to perform plumbing work and plumbing companies. The proposed new rules are responsive to and comply with changes made to the Plumbing License Law during the 78th Legislative Regular Session. The proposed new rules set forth procedures for the Board and its staff to follow from complaint investigations through the contested case hearings under the requirements of the Plumbing License Law and Administrative Procedure Act. The new rules are proposed in conjunction with the proposed repeal of §§361.22 - 361.24, 361.26 and 361.27. The sections proposed to be repealed set forth a portion of the same procedures in less detail as the proposed new rules.

The proposed new rule §367.8 sets forth procedures to be followed by the Board's staff for conducting complaint investigations under the requirements of the Plumbing License Law.

The proposed new rule §367.9 sets forth procedures to be followed by the Board's Enforcement Committee to resolve complaints and recommend and pursue disciplinary action for violations of the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules, including guidelines for determining when a citation should be issued.

The proposed new rule §367.10 sets forth the procedures to be followed by the Enforcement Committee when pursuing an administrative penalty according to the standardized Administrative Penalty Schedule policy adopted by the Board.

The proposed new rule §367.11 sets forth the guidelines for reprimand, probation, suspension and revocation of licenses and registrations and establishes guidelines for probation to be administered consistently.

The proposed new rule §367.12 sets forth the procedures to be followed by the Enforcement Committee when an individual fails to request a hearing after being notified of the Enforcement Committee's intent to deny the individual a license or revoke an individual's license or registration.

The proposed new rule §367.13 sets forth the procedures to be followed when the Enforcement Committee determines that an informal conference should be offered to a Respondent.

The proposed new rule §367.14 sets forth the procedures to be followed when the Enforcement Committee refers a contested case to the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rules are in effect there will be no fiscal impact on local municipal government, small businesses and persons who comply with the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules, as a result of the adoption of these new rules. Persons or entities that violate the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules could be impacted by being required to pay administrative and other penalties in amounts from $100.00 to $5,000 for each violation, according to the nature and circumstances of the violation. The state government general revenue fund would be positively impacted by the amount of each administrative penalty paid by persons or entities that violate the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules.

Mr. Maxwell also has determined that each year of the first five years the rules are effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be the protection of the public health, safety and welfare through fair and equitable enforcement of the Plumbing License Law. Additionally, the enforcement of these proposed new rules should further protect the public by discouraging violations of the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted within 30 days of publication of these proposed new rules in the Texas Register , to Robert L. Maxwell, Executive Director, Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, 929 East 41st Street, P.O. Box 4200, Austin, Texas 78765-4200.

The new rules are proposed under and affect Title 8, Chapter 1301, Occupations Code, as amended by the 78th Legislature ("Plumbing License Law"), §§1301.251, 1301.303, 1301.451, 1301.502, 1301.504, 1301.5045, 1301.5071, Subchapter N of Chapter 1301, Occupations Code and Chapter 367 of the Board Rules. Section 1301.251 requires the Board to adopt and enforce rules necessary to administer the Plumbing License Law. Section 1301.303 sets forth requirements for complaint investigations. Section 1301.451 sets forth the disciplinary powers of the Board. Section 1301.502 authorizes the issuance of citations according to guidelines adopted by the Board. Section 1301.504 authorizes the filing of injunctions. Section 1301.5045 authorizes the issuance of cease and desist orders. Section 1301.5071 requires the Board to adopt procedures for conducting informal conferences and authorizes the Board to order restitution. Subchapter N authorizes the Board to impose administrative penalties, sets general procedures for the imposition and collection of the administrative penalties, hearings and appeals. Board Rules Chapter 367 provides for enforcement of the Plumbing License Law, standards of conduct and requirements for licensees and registrants of the Board and persons offering to perform plumbing work and plumbing companies. These new rules are also proposed under the authority of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001 (Administrative Procedure Act).

No other statute, article or code is affected by these proposed new rules.

§367.8.Investigation of Complaints.

(a) In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, described in §1301.259 of the Plumbing License Law:

(1) the Board's Field Representatives and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation enforcement officers are authorized to perform on-site checks of the licenses, registrations and endorsements held by persons practicing occupations regulated by either agency and report alleged violations to the agency regulating the occupation; and

(2) the Board and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall conduct joint investigations, as circumstances require.

(b) The Board may utilize its Field Representatives, Director of Enforcement and Enforcement Committee, as appropriate, to investigate an alleged violation of the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules by a person who:

(1) is registered or licensed under the Plumbing License Law; or

(2) performs plumbing without holding a registration or license under the Plumbing License Law.

(c) The Director of Enforcement shall maintain a file and computer records on each written complaint alleging a violation of the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules filed with the board. The file and computer records are subject to the agency's record retention schedule and must include:

(1) the source of the complaint;

(2) the name of the person who filed the complaint;

(3) the date the complaint is received by the agency;

(4) the type and subject matter of the complaint;

(5) the geographic area, including the name of any municipality and the county in which the conduct that is the subject of the complaint occurred;

(6) the name of each person contacted in relation to the complaint;

(7) a summary of the results of the review or investigation of the complaint; and

(8) an explanation of the reason the file was closed, if the agency closed the file without taking action other than to investigate the complaint.

(d) The Director of Enforcement shall review the statistical information available in the complaint files and computer records, described in subsection (c) of this section, to identify geographical problem areas of the state where enforcement should be focused and make recommendations to the Enforcement Committee and the Executive Director for addressing the problems utilizing the resources available to the agency.

(e) Upon receipt of a complaint, the Director of Enforcement shall assign a priority of investigation to the complaint, with the highest priorities based on:

(1) any existing conditions that pose an immediate risk to public health, safety or property; and

(2) the possible loss of evidence that may occur if the complaint was investigated only in relation to the order that it was received; and

(3) complaints which do not contain existing conditions that pose an immediate risk or possible loss of evidence, as described in subsection (e)(1) or (e)(2) of this section, shall be investigated in relation to the order in which the complaint was received.

(f) The Director of Enforcement shall provide to the person filing the complaint and to each person who is a subject of the complaint a copy of the agency's policies and procedures relating to complaint investigation and resolution.

(g) The Director of Enforcement shall track each complaint and, at least quarterly and until final disposition of the complaint, shall notify the person filing the complaint and each person who is a subject of the complaint of the status of the investigation, unless the notice would jeopardize an undercover investigation.

(h) Following the investigation of a complaint, the Director of Enforcement shall refer the findings of the investigation with recommendations for disposition of the complaint to the Enforcement Committee.

§367.9.Enforcement Committee; Complaint Review.

(a) The Enforcement Committee shall pursue expeditious resolution of complaints by voluntary agreed settlement, whenever appropriate.

(b) The Enforcement Committee may review complaints and alleged violations referred by the Director of Enforcement and may determine to:

(1) dismiss a complaint due to:

(A) no occurrence of a violation; or

(B) the lack of sufficient evidence to prove a violation;

(2) further investigate a complaint;

(3) find that a violation may have occurred and issue a warning;

(4) find that a violation occurred and pursue an administrative penalty under the Administrative Penalty Schedule adopted by the Board;

(5) find that a violation occurred and pursue license or registration probation, suspension or revocation; or

(6) pursue any other or additional action allowed under the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules that justice may require, including:

(A) issue a Cease and Desist Order, under §1301.5045, of the Plumbing License Law;

(B) file an injunction under §1301.504, of the Plumbing License Law;

(C) issue a Class C Misdemeanor citation to repetitive offenders of the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules, only if other enforcement measures, including administrative penalties have previously been imposed; or

(7) offer an Informal Conference to a Respondent in accordance with the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act, if the Enforcement Committee determines that such a conference is needed to assist the Enforcement Committee in determining:

(A) whether or not a violation occurred;

(B) the seriousness or the effect of a violation;

(C) the appropriate disciplinary action to be pursued, including administrative penalties, license or registration probation, suspension or revocation; or

(D) the amount of restitution to be paid by a Respondent, under §1301.5071, of the Plumbing License Law, instead of, or in addition to other disciplinary actions.

§367.10.Administrative Penalty.

(a) If the Enforcement Committee decides to pursue an administrative penalty under the Administrative Penalty Schedule adopted by the Board, the Director of Enforcement shall issue a Notice of Alleged Violation to the Respondent which must include a brief summary of the alleged violation, state the amount of the penalty pursued and inform the Respondent of the Respondent's right to a hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings on the occurrence of the violation or the amount of the penalty.

(b) Not later than the 20th day after the Notice of Alleged Violation is received by the Respondent, the Respondent, in writing, shall:

(1) agree to settle the matter without a formal hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings and accept the determination and settlement penalty recommended by the Enforcement Committee; or

(2) make a request for a formal hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings on the occurrence of the violation, the amount of the penalty, or both.

(c) If the Respondent agrees to settle the matter without a formal hearing and accepts the determination and amount of penalty pursued by the Enforcement Committee, the Respondent shall pay the penalty to the Board not later than 60 days following the date that the Notice of Alleged Violation was issued.

(d) The Enforcement Committee shall provide a report to the Board stating a summary of the facts or allegations against the Respondent and the amount of the recommended administrative penalty agreed to by the Enforcement Committee and the Respondent. The Board, by order, shall approve the recommended penalty.

(e) The Enforcement Committee shall set a formal hearing on the matter as a contested case at the State Office of Administrative Hearings if:

(1) the Respondent requests a formal hearing not later than the 20th day after the Notice of Alleged Violation is received by the Respondent;

(2) the Respondent fails to respond in writing to the Notice of Alleged Violation not later than the 20th day after the Notice of Alleged Violation is received by the Respondent; or

(3) the Respondent fails to pay the agreed settlement penalty to the Board not later than 60 days following the date that the Notice of Alleged Violation was issued.

(f) The Board shall not renew the license or registration of a Respondent who fails to:

(1) respond in writing to the Notice of Alleged Violation not later than the 20th day after the notice was received by the Respondent; or

(2) pay the settlement penalty to the Board not later than 60 days following the date that the Notice of Alleged Violation was issued, if the Respondent previously agreed to the penalty in written response to the Notice of Alleged Violation.

§367.11.Reprimand; Probation; Suspension; Revocation.

(a) The board shall revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew a license, endorsement, or registration or shall reprimand a holder of a license, endorsement, or registration for a violation of the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules.

(b) For the purposes of this section, a reprimand means any disciplinary action, other than the probation, suspension or revocation of a license, endorsement or registration.

(c) A person whose license, endorsement, or registration has been revoked may not apply for a new license, endorsement, or registration before one year from the date of final revocation.

(d) The board may place on probation a person whose license, endorsement, or registration is suspended. If a license, endorsement, or registration suspension is probated, the board may require the person:

(1) to report regularly to the agency on matters that are the basis of the probation;

(2) to limit practice to the areas prescribed by the board; or

(3) to continue or review professional education until the person attains a degree of skill satisfactory to the board in those areas that are the basis of the probation.

(e) If the Enforcement Committee or the Board determines that probation is appropriate to deter future violations of the Plumbing License Law and Board Rules by the Respondent, probation shall be administered consistently under the following guidelines:

(1) for violations with greater potential to jeopardize public health, safety, welfare, property, or environment (as listed in the Board's Administrative Penalty Schedule for Class A violations), the term of the probation may not be less than one year or more than five years; and

(2) for violations with less potential to jeopardize public health, safety, welfare, property, or environment (as listed in the Board's Administrative Penalty Schedule for Class B violations), the term of the probation may not be less than six months or more than one year.

(f) Probation by voluntary agreed settlement between a Respondent and the Enforcement Committee may meet such terms that both parties deem fair and which in the interest of justice may require.

§367.12.Failure to Request Hearing After Notice of Intent to Deny or Revoke.

(a) If the Enforcement Committee proposes to deny an examination or registration to an applicant, or revoke a license, registration, or endorsement, the Enforcement Committee shall give timely written notice of the denial or revocation to the applicant to the last known address provided to the Board by the applicant.

(b) The language of the notice shall include:

(1) a summary of the allegations against the applicant;

(2) the applicant's right to be represented by an attorney on the matter;

(3) the applicant's right to request a hearing on the matter before the State Office of Administrative Hearings;

(4) the applicant's request for a hearing must be made no later than 20 days after the receipt of the notice; and

(5) the applicant's failure to request a hearing within 20 days after the receipt of the notice results in the Enforcement Committee's decision to deny or revoke becoming final and judicial appeal of the denial or revocation being waived by the applicant.

(c) Any individual whose application for examination, a license, registration or endorsement has been denied or revoked may re-apply to the Board after a waiting period of at least one year from the date that the denial or revocation became final. The Enforcement Committee shall be delegated the authority of making the initial review of the re-application. If the Committee decides to deny the re-application it shall proceed as defined in subsection (a) of this section.

(d) If the committee makes a decision to approve the applicant's request, it must be presented for approval before the Board members, at a regularly scheduled Board meeting to approve the applicant's request, if approved, then the applicant is to follow the same licensing or registration procedures required of a first-time licensee or registrant.

§367.13.Informal Conference.

(a) If the Enforcement Committee decides to offer an Informal Conference to a Respondent, the Director of Enforcement shall give notice of the Informal Conference, including a summary of the alleged violation and the Respondent's right to request a hearing on the allegations at the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

(b) If the Informal Conference results in the Enforcement Committee and the Respondent entering into an agreed settlement of restitution or action on the Respondents license or registration, the Director of Enforcement shall prepare an Agreed Final Order to be presented by the Enforcement Committee to the Board for adoption.

(c) If the Informal Conference fails to result in an agreed settlement, the Enforcement Committee shall set a formal hearing on the matter as a contested case at the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

§367.14.Contested Case; State Office of Administrative Hearings.

(a) A contested case shall mean any action that is referred by the Enforcement Committee or the Board to the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

(b) Respondent means:

(1) a person in a contested case charged with a violation of the Plumbing License or Board Rules; or

(2) an applicant who has been denied a license, registration or endorsement by the Enforcement Committee.

(c) The Board shall provide for a hearing at the State Office of Administrative Hearings, when requested by a Respondent, after issuing a formal complaint that:

(1) charges an individual with any violation of the Plumbing License Law or Board Rules; or

(2) would prevent an otherwise qualified individual from obtaining or renewing a license, registration, or endorsement, or taking an examination.

(d) The Board shall conduct the hearing in accordance with all applicable provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act.

(e) The Board shall give reasonable notice of the hearing to the Respondent of not less than 10 days before the hearing. In addition to any requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act, related to notice of hearing, the Board shall:

(1) mail the notice to the last known address provided to the Board by the Respondent via regular and certified mail;

(2) state in the notice that all parties will have the opportunity to respond to and present evidence and argument on all issues involved and to be represented by legal counsel; and

(3) shall include the following language in capital letters in bold face type: FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE HEARING WILL RESULT IN THE ALLEGATIONS AGAINST YOU SET OUT IN THE COMPLAINT BEING ADMITTED AS TRUE.

(f) After proper notice of the hearing, if a respondent fails to appear in person or through their legal representative on the day and at the time set for hearing in a contested case, regardless of whether a written answer or other responsive pleading has been filed with the Board or the State Office of Administrative Hearings, the Administrative Law Judge, upon motion by the Board, shall enter a default judgment in the matter adverse to the Respondent who has failed to attend the hearing.

(g) For purposes of this section, default judgment shall mean the issuance of a proposal for decision against the Respondent in which the factual allegations against the Respondent contained in the Complaint shall be admitted as prima facie evidence, and deemed admitted as true, without any requirement for additional proof to be submitted by the Board.

(h) Following the hearing, the Administrative Law Judge shall make findings of fact and conclusions of law and promptly issue a Proposal for Decision on the matter to the Board, with a copy sent to the Respondent.

(i) The Administrative Law Judge shall allow no more than 15 days from the date that the Proposal for Decision is served for any party to file exceptions to the Proposal for Decision. The Proposal for Decision is considered served on the day that the Proposal for Decision is sent to all parties by the Administrative Law judge.

(j) Following the Board's consideration of the Proposal for Decision, the Board shall issue an order stating its final decision on the matter.

(k) The Enforcement Committee shall provide notice to the Respondent of the Board's order and include a statement of the Respondent's right to judicial appeal of the order. The Respondent may:

(1) pay the penalty; or

(2) file a petition for judicial review contesting the occurrence of the violation, the amount of the penalty, or both.

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 7, 2004.

TRD-200403088

Robert L. Maxwell

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 20, 2004

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