TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 6. TEXAS BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS

Chapter 137. COMPLIANCE AND PROFESSIONALISM

Subchapter C. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICS

22 TAC §137.59

The Texas Board of Professional Engineers proposes an amendment to §137.59, relating to Engineers' Actions Shall Be Competent. The proposed amendment adds clarification to the rule by establishing what requirements must be met to show competence when asked by the Board. These requirements would be in response to a complaint filed with this agency against the licensed professional engineer.

The proposed rule change adds the requirement that any licensed professional engineer who is alleged to have practiced engineering in an area of competence different than what is documented on Board records provide proof of competency. The rule also sets out the evidence that the licensed engineer can provide to the Board as proof of their competence.

It should be noted that this rule change is intended to provide guidance for licensed professional engineers who are asked to respond to a competency-related complaint filed with Board. While the Board's review and investigation of a specific complaint may allow or approve the respondent engineer's proof of competency with one or more of the described methods, the engineer would not necessarily meet the requirements of §133.97(k), which allows for changing or adding areas of discipline to Board records. Nor should that respondent assume, for subsequent engineering services, that they are competent in that challenged discipline.

C.W. Clark, P.E., Director of Compliance & Enforcement for the Board, has determined that, for the first five-year period the proposed amendment is in effect, there are no fiscal implications for the state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section as amended. Mr. Clark has determined that there is no additional cost to the agency or the licensees. There is no effect on individuals required to comply with the rule as proposed. There is no effect on small or micro businesses.

Mr. Clark also has determined that, for the first five years the proposed amendment is in effect, the public benefit anticipated is a clarification of the rule.

Comments may be submitted no later than 30 days after the publication of this notice to C. W. Clark, P.E., Director of Compliance & Enforcement, Texas Board of Professional Engineers, 1917 IH-35 South, Austin, Texas 78741 or faxed at (512) 440-5715.

The amendment is proposed pursuant to the Texas Engineering Practice Act, Occupations Code §1001.202, which authorizes the board to make and enforce all rules and regulations and bylaws consistent with the Act as necessary for the performance of its duties, the governance of its own, proceedings, and the regulation of the practice of engineering in this state.

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

§137.59.Engineers' Actions Shall Be Competent.

(a) Engineers shall practice only in their areas of competence. If a licensed professional engineer is alleged to have practiced outside documented areas of competency, as shown on their Board record, the engineer shall, if requested by the Board, provide evidence of competence. Evidence of competence may be demonstrated by submitting one or more of the following items for review by the Board: a transcript showing a degree in the branch of engineering, a supplementary experience record (SER) documenting an appropriate level of experience as determined by the Board according to the criteria set out in §133.43 of this title (relating to Experience Evaluation) and validated by a licensed professional engineer selected by the Board whose documented area of competence is in the same branch of engineering, or verification of successful passage of the examination on the principles and practice of engineering in the branch of engineering.

(b) - (c) (No change.)

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700627

Dale Beebe Farrow, P.E.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Professional Engineers

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 440-7723


Part 11. BOARD OF NURSE EXAMINERS

Chapter 214. VOCATIONAL NURSING EDUCATION

22 TAC §214.10

The Board of Nurse Examiners proposes amendments to §214.10 pertaining to Vocational Nursing Education. Section 214.10 specifically addresses Management of Clinical Learning Experiences and Resources. The proposed amendment is pertinent to Faculty-to-Student Ratio in Clinical Settings in Education Programs. Concurrent with this proposal, the Board is proposing an amendment to §215.10 which addresses faculty-to-student ratios in clinical settings in professional nursing education programs.

The Board is currently under Sunset review. In a recent Sunset Committee hearing, a committee member expressed concern that the clinical ratio of faculty-to-student of 1:10 was too burdensome to teaching programs as required by Board rule. It became evident to Staff and members of the Board that misunderstanding exists in the options available to nursing education programs in the utilization of preceptors in the clinical setting. By using preceptors, nursing education programs can increase the faculty-to-student ratio to a maximum of 1:24. In professional nursing programs, a teaching assistant with a faculty member in the clinical setting can increase the ratio to 1:15.

To allay any confusion, the Board proposes amendments to the professional and vocational nursing education rules by reorganizing the rules applicable to this issue in a more easily comprehensible format. The Advisory Committee on Education met on February 2, 2007, and made additional recommendations, as follows: §214.10(k) and §215.10(e) be revised to clarify that the existing ratios only apply to clinical learning experiences involving direct patient care; §215.10(d)(2)(A) - (B) in the current rule be deleted to clarify that ratios in the non-direct care patient settings are at a program's discretion; and §215.10(h)(8), as proposed, be modified to allow non-BSN prepared nurses to be paired with a Master's Degree (MSN) prepared faculty member as a clinical teaching assistant. These changes should allow greater latitude for nursing programs to implement innovative clinical supervision strategies.

Katherine Thomas, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed amendments are adopted there will be no additional fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of implementing the proposed amendments

Ms. Thomas has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed amendments are adopted, the public benefit will be that the amendments will allow nursing programs to implement innovative clinical supervision strategies. There will not be any foreseeable effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated costs to affected individuals as a result of the implementation of this proposed amendment.

Written comments on the proposal may be submitted to Katherine A. Thomas, MN, RN, Executive Director, Board of Nurse Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460, Austin, Texas 78701, or by facsimile to (512) 305-8101, or by email to joy.sparks@bne.state.tx.us.

The proposed amendments are pursuant to the authority of Texas Occupations Code §301.157 and §301.151 which authorizes the Board of Nurse Examiners to adopt, enforce, and repeal rules consistent with its legislative authority under the Nursing Practice Act.

No statutes, articles, or codes are affected by this proposed amendment.

§214.10.Management of Clinical Learning Experiences and Resource.

(a) - (i) (No changes.)

(j) The faculty member shall be responsible for the supervision of students in clinical learning experiences.

(k) The following ratios only apply to clinical learning experiences involving direct patient care:

(1) When a faculty member is the only person officially responsible for a clinical group, then the group shall total no more than ten (10) students. Patient safety shall be a priority and may mandate lower ratios, as appropriate. The faculty member shall supervise that group in only one facility at a time, unless some portion or all of the clinical group are assigned to observational experiences in additional settings.

(2) Direct faculty supervision is not required for an observational experience. Observational experiences may be used to supplement, but not replace patient care experiences, and must serve the purpose of student attainment of clinical objectives.

(l) Clinical preceptors may be used to enhance clinical learning experiences after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in all basic areas of nursing or within a course after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in the basic areas of nursing for that course or specific learning experience.

(1) In courses which use clinical preceptors for a portion of clinical learning experiences, faculty shall have no more than twelve (12) students in a clinical group.

(2) In a course which uses clinical preceptors as the sole method of student instruction and supervision in clinical settings, faculty shall coordinate the preceptorship for no more than twenty-four (24) students.

(3) The preceptor may supervise student clinical learning experiences without the physical presence of the faculty member in the affiliating agency or clinical practice setting.

(4) The preceptor shall be responsible for the clinical learning experiences of no more than two students (2) at a time per clinical group.

(m) [ (k) ] When faculty [ Faculty may ] use clinical preceptors to enhance clinical learning experiences and to assist faculty in the clinical supervision of students the following applies: [ . ]

(1) Faculty shall develop written criteria for the selection of clinical preceptors.

(2) When clinical preceptors are used, written agreements between the vocational nursing education program, clinical preceptor, and the affiliating agency, when applicable, shall delineate the functions and responsibilities of the parties involved.

(3) Faculty shall be readily available to students and clinical preceptors during clinical learning experiences.

(4) The designated faculty member shall meet periodically with the clinical preceptors and student(s) for the purpose of monitoring and evaluating learning experiences.

(5) Written clinical objectives, evaluation criteria, and written description of expectations shall be shared with the clinical preceptors prior to or concurrent with the experience.

[ (l) Clinical preceptors may be used to enhance clinical learning experiences after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in all basic areas of nursing or within a course after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in the basic areas of nursing for that course or specific learning experience. ]

[ (1) In courses which use clinical preceptors for a portion of clinical learning experiences, faculty shall have no more than 12 students in a clinical group. ]

[ (2) In a course which uses clinical preceptors as the sole method of student instruction and supervision in clinical settings, faculty shall coordinate the preceptorship for no more than 24 students. ]

[ (3) The preceptor may supervise student clinical learning experiences without the physical presence of the faculty member in the affiliating agency or clinical practice setting. ]

[ (4) The preceptor shall be responsible for the clinical learning experiences of no more than two students per clinical day. ]

(6) [ (5) ] The preceptor shall be accountable for evaluating the student using clinical objectives developed by vocational nursing faculty.

(7) [ (6) ] Clinical preceptors shall have the following qualifications:

(A) competence in designated areas of practice;

(B) philosophy of health care congruent with that of the nursing program; and

(C) current licensure or privilege to practice nursing in the State of Texas.

(n) [ (m) ] The total weekly schedule throughout the length of the program shall not exceed 40 hours per week including both class and clinical practice hours. Class and clinical practice hours shall be continuous. Students shall be assigned two consecutive non-class days off each week.

(o) [ (n) ] Programs shall not permit utilization of students for health care facility staffing.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 22, 2007.

TRD-200700696

Katherine A. Thomas, MN, RN

Executive Director

Board of Nurse Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6823


Chapter 215. PROFESSIONAL NURSING EDUCATION

22 TAC §215.10

The Board of Nurse Examiners proposes amendments to §215.10 pertaining to Professional Nursing Education. Section 215.10 specifically addresses Management of Clinical Learning Experiences and Resources. The proposed amendment is pertinent to faculty-to-student ratios in clinical settings in professional nursing education programs. Concurrent with this proposal, the Board is proposing an amendment to §214.10 which addresses faculty-to-student ratios in clinical settings in vocational nursing education programs.

The Board is currently under Sunset review. In a recent Sunset Committee hearing, a committee member expressed concern that the clinical ratio of faculty-to-student of 1:10 was too burdensome to teaching programs as required by Board rule. It became evident to Staff and members of the Board that misunderstanding exists in the options available to nursing education programs in the utilization of preceptors in the clinical setting. By using preceptors, nursing education programs can increase the faculty-to-student ratio to a maximum of 1:24. In professional nursing programs, a teaching assistant with a faculty member in the clinical setting can increase the ratio to 1:15.

To allay any confusion, the Board proposes amendments to the professional and vocational nursing education rules by reorganizing the rules applicable to this issue in a more easily comprehensible format. The Advisory Committee on Education met on February 2, 2007, and made additional recommendations, as follows: §214.10(k) and §215.10(e) be revised to clarify that the existing ratios only apply to clinical learning experiences involving direct patient care; §215.10(d)(2)(A) - (B) be deleted to clarify that ratios in the non-direct care patient settings are at a program's discretion; and §215.10(h)(8), as proposed, be modified to allow non-BSN prepared nurses to be paired with a Master's Degree (MSN) prepared faculty member as a clinical teaching assistant. These changes should allow greater latitude for nursing programs to implement innovative clinical supervision strategies.

Katherine A. Thomas, MN, RN, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed amendments are in effect there will be no additional fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of implementing the proposed amendments.

Ms. Thomas has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed amendments are in effect, the public benefit will be that the amendments will allow nursing programs to implement innovative clinical supervision strategies. There will not be any foreseeable effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated costs to affected individuals as a result of the implementation of the proposed amendments.

Written comments on the proposal may be submitted to Katherine A. Thomas, MN, RN, Executive Director, Board of Nurse Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460, Austin, Texas 78701, or by facsimile to (512) 305-8101, or by e-mail to joy.sparks@bne.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed pursuant to the authority of Texas Occupations Code §301.151 and §301.157 which authorizes the Board of Nurse Examiners to adopt, enforce, and repeal rules consistent with its legislative authority under the Nursing Practice Act.

No statutes, articles, or codes are affected by the proposed amendments.

§215.10.Management of Clinical Learning Experiences and Resources.

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

(d) The faculty member shall be responsible for the supervision of students in clinical learning experiences.

(e) The following ratios only apply to clinical learning experiences involving direct patient care:

(1) When a faculty member is the only person officially responsible for a clinical group, the group shall total no more than ten (10) students. Patient safety shall be a priority and may mandate lower ratios, as appropriate. The faculty member shall supervise that group in only one facility at a time, unless some portion or all of the clinical group are assigned to observational experiences in additional settings.

(2) Direct faculty supervision is not required for an observational experience.

[(A) Observational experiences may be used to supplement, but not replace patient care experiences, and must serve the purpose of student attainment of clinical objectives.]

[(B) Observational experiences shall comprise no more than 20% of the clinical contact hours for a course and no more than 10% of the clinical contact hours for the program of study.]

(f) Clinical preceptors may be used to enhance clinical learning experiences after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in all basic areas of nursing or within a course after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in the basic areas of nursing for that course or specific learning experience.

(1) In courses which use clinical preceptors for a portion of clinical learning experiences, faculty shall have no more than twelve (12) students in a clinical group.

(2) In a course which uses clinical preceptors as the sole method of student instruction and supervision in clinical settings, faculty shall coordinate the preceptorship for no more than twenty-four (24) students.

(3) The preceptor may supervise student clinical learning experiences without the physical presence of the faculty member in the affiliating agency or clinical practice setting.

(4) The preceptor shall be responsible for the clinical learning experiences of no more than two (2) students at a time per clinical group.

(g) Clinical teaching assistants may assist qualified, experienced faculty with clinical learning experiences.

(1) In clinical learning experiences where a faculty member is supported by a clinical teaching assistant, the ratio of faculty to students shall not exceed two (2) to fifteen (15) (one faculty plus one clinical teaching assistant to fifteen students).

(2) Clinical teaching assistants shall supervise student clinical learning experiences only when the qualified and experienced faculty member is physically present in the affiliating agency or alternative practice setting.

(h) [ (e) ] When faculty [ Faculty may ] use clinical preceptors or clinical teaching assistants to enhance clinical learning experiences and to assist faculty in the clinical supervision of students the following applies: [ . ]

(1) Faculty shall develop written criteria for the selection of clinical preceptors and clinical teaching assistants.

(2) When clinical preceptors or clinical teaching assistants are used, written agreements between the professional nursing education program, clinical preceptor or clinical teaching assistant, and the affiliating agency, when applicable, shall delineate the functions and responsibilities of the parties involved.

(3) Faculty shall be readily available to students and clinical preceptors or clinical teaching assistants during clinical learning experiences.

(4) The designated faculty member shall meet periodically with the clinical preceptors or clinical teaching assistants and student(s) for the purpose of monitoring and evaluating learning experiences.

(5) Written clinical objectives shall be shared with the clinical preceptors or clinical teaching assistants prior to or concurrent with the experience.

[ (f) Clinical preceptors may be used to enhance clinical learning experiences after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in all basic areas of nursing or within a course after a student has received clinical and didactic instruction in the basic areas of nursing for that course or specific learning experience. ]

[(1) In courses which use clinical preceptors for a portion of clinical learning experiences, faculty shall have no more than 12 students in a clinical group.]

[(2) In a course which uses clinical preceptors as the sole method of student instruction and supervision in clinical settings, faculty shall coordinate the preceptorship for no more than 24 students.]

[(3) The preceptor may supervise student clinical learning experiences without the physical presence of the faculty member in the affiliating agency or clinical practice setting.]

[(4) The preceptor shall be responsible for the clinical learning experiences of no more than two students per clinical day.]

(6) [ (5) ] Clinical preceptors shall have the following qualifications:

(A) competence in designated areas of practice;

(B) philosophy of health care congruent with that of the nursing program; and

(C) current licensure or privilege as a registered nurse in the State of Texas; or

(D) if not a registered nurse, a current license in Texas as a health care professional with a minimum of a bachelor's degree in that field.

[ (g) Clinical teaching assistants may assist qualified, experienced faculty with clinical learning experiences. ]

[(1) In clinical learning experiences where a faculty member is supported by a clinical teaching assistant, the ratio of faculty to students shall not exceed 2:15 (faculty plus clinical teaching assistant:student).]

[(2) Clinical teaching assistants shall supervise student clinical learning experiences only when the qualified and experienced faculty member is physically present in the affiliating agency or alternative practice setting.]

(7) [ (3) ] When acting as a clinical teaching assistant, the RN shall not be responsible for other staff duties, such as supervising other personnel and/or patient care.

(8) [ (4) ] Clinical teaching assistants shall meet the following criteria:

(A) hold a current license or privilege to practice as a registered nurse in the State of Texas; and

[(B) hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited baccalaureate program in nursing; and]

(B) [ (C) ] have the clinical expertise to function effectively and safely in the designated area of teaching.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 22, 2007.

TRD-200700698

Katherine A. Thomas, MN, RN

Executive Director

Board of Nurse Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6823


Part 21. TEXAS STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PSYCHOLOGISTS

Chapter 461. GENERAL RULINGS

22 TAC §461.16

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes new §461.16, concerning Inaccurate and False Information in Licensure Application/Documentation and for Annual Licensure Renewal Application/Documentation. The new section is proposed to clearly state that it is a violation of rules to provide inaccurate or false information on an application for licensure or renewal.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the new section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed.

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

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

No other codes, articles or statutes are affected by this section.

§461.16.Inaccurate and False Information in Licensure Application/Documentation and for Annual Licensure Renewal Application/Documentation.

(a) Applicants. Applicants are prohibited from providing inaccurate or false information in their applications and required documentation for licensure. For an infraction of this type, the Board may agree to process the application pursuant to an eligibility order. For a serious infraction of this type that could lead to licensure of an unqualified person, the Board may deny licensure.

(b) Licensees. The Board will file a complaint against a licensee for alleged errors in or falsification of an application for licensure or required documentation for licensure or of an annual renewal application and required renewal documentation, including continuing education documentation. For an infraction that led to the licensure or annual renewal of an unqualified person, the Board may revoke the license or disallow renewal of the license.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700642

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


Chapter 465. RULES OF PRACTICE

22 TAC §465.1

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.1, concerning Definitions. The amendments are proposed to make grammatical corrections in the rule.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.1.Definitions.

The following terms have the following meanings:

(1) (No change.)

(2) "Dual Relationship" means a situation where a licensee and another individual have both a professional relationship and a non-professional relationship. Dual relationships include, but are not limited to, personal friendships, business or financial interactions, mutual club or social group activities, family or marital ties , or sexual relationships.

(3) "Forensic psychology" is the provision of psychological services involving a court of law or the legal system. The provision of forensic psychological services includes any and all preliminary and exploratory services, testing, assessments, evaluations, interviews, examinations, depositions, oral or written reports, live or recorded testimony, or any psychological service provided by a licensee concerning a current or potential legal case at the request of a party or potential party, an attorney for a party, or a court, or any other individual or entity, regardless of whether the licensee ultimately provides a report or testimony that is utilized in a legal proceeding [ trial or hearing ].

(4) "Informed Consent" means the written documented consent of the patient, client and other recipients of psychological services only after the patient, client or other recipient has been made aware of the purpose and nature of the services to be provided, including but not limited to: the specific goals of the services; the procedures to be utilized to deliver the services; possible side effects of the services, if applicable; alternate choices to the services, if applicable; the possible duration of the services; the confidentiality of and relevant limits thereto; all financial policies, including the cost and methods of payment; and any provisions for cancellation of and payments for missed appointments; and right of access of the patient, client or other recipient to the records of the services.

(5) "Licensee" means a licensed psychologist, provisionally licensed psychologist, licensed psychological associate, licensed specialist in school psychology, applicants to the Board, and any other individual [ over ] whom the Board has the authority to discipline under these Rules.

(6) - (10) (No change.)

(11) "Recognized member of the clergy," as used in Section 501.004(a)(4) of the Act, means a member in good standing of and accountable to a [ legally recognized ] denomination, church, sect or religious organization legally recognized under the Internal Revenue Code, Section 501(c)(3).

(12) - (14) (No change.)

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700641

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


22 TAC §465.4

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.4, concerning Employment of Individuals Not Licensed by this Board. The amendments are proposed to make grammatical corrections in the rule.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.4.Employment of Individuals Not Licensed by This Board.

(a) (No change.)

(b) Unlicensed, Non-Exempt Individuals. Psychologists may employ unlicensed, non-exempt individuals only to perform services which do not constitute the practice of psychology or the activities and services of another licensed profession. Permissible duties include:

(1) Secretarial and clerical duties such as scheduling appointments or processing insurance forms ; [ . ]

(2) Data gathering, such as administering, proctoring, or scoring non-projective tests, obtaining histories or obtaining documentation for record keeping purposes, provided that it does not require psychological education or involve the provision of psychological services ; and [ . ]

(3) (No change.)

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700640

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


22 TAC §465.5

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.5, concerning Practice in Psychology. The amendments are proposed to clarify the rule.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.5.Practice in Psychology.

(a) Multiple Licensure. [ Individuals may provide services allowed under the definition of practice of any active license(s) they hold. If a service such as, but not limited to, psychotherapy and family counseling, is allowed under more than one license, individuals may use those licenses simultaneously in treating a client. However, a licensee of the Board is liable for any service considered to be the practice of psychology, regardless of any other license the individual may be using. Similarly, if the licensee holds two licenses with this Board, any complaint or disciplinary action is directed to the licensee's psychology practice as a whole, as opposed to one or the other license. Additionally, individuals offering services outside the practice of psychology must avoid confusing or misleading clients by clearly identifying the license(s) under which services are being delivered. ]

(1) Multiple licenses regulated by the Board are treated as one for purposes of Board discipline. Any complaint or disciplinary action under these rules is directed to the licensee's psychology practice as a whole, and applies to all Board-issued licenses held by a licensee.

(2) Multiple licenses including those governed by other entities. Licensees offering services outside the practice of psychology must avoid confusing or misleading clients by clearly identifying the license(s) under which services are being delivered. If a licensee holds more than one active license under which the licensee provides such services as counseling and psychotherapy in addition to psychological services, the licensee must obtain documented informed consent showing that the patient understands which license governs which services delivered to the patient at all times.

(b) Practice of Psychology. The following [ Following ] activities are covered by the definition of the "provision of psychological services" in Board Rule §465.1(10). This list is not intended to be exhaustive, but includes examples of the activities that, when performed by a licensee, are subject to Board Rules:

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

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700639

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


22 TAC §465.6

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.6, concerning Listings, Public Statements and Advertisements, Solicitations, and Specialty Titles. The amendments are proposed to make technical corrections to the rule.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.6.Listings, Public Statements and Advertisements, Solicitations, and Specialty Titles.

(a) Listings.

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) Only licensed psychologists [ psychologist ] may be listed in telephone directories under the title of "Psychologists."

(b) - (c) (No change.)

(d) Specialty Titles. A psychologist may use a specialty title only when one of the following criteria have been met:

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(4) Certification or approval or specialist [ diplomat ] status has been granted by a professional, refereed board, provided that the licensee indicates the name of the board which granted the title and that the individual's status with the specialty board is current and in good standing. Use of the term "Board Certified" or "Board Approved" or any similar words or phrases calculated to convey the same meaning shall constitute misleading or deceptive advertising, unless the licensee discloses the complete name of the specialty board that conferred the aforementioned specialty title, certification, approval, or specialist [ diplomat ] status.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700638

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


22 TAC §465.7

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.7, concerning Display of License/Renewal Permit. The amendments are proposed to clarify the rule.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.7.Display of License/Renewal Permit.

Licensees must display the original license or an official duplicate issued by the Board and the current renewal permit in a conspicuous place in the principle office where the licensee practices. No unauthorized reproduction may be substituted or displayed. [ Any reproduction displayed in lieu of those cited in this section is unauthorized by the Board. ] Licensees who provide psychological services through the internet shall display an image of their current license/renewal permit in a prominent and easily accessible location on their website.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700637

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


22 TAC §465.9

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.9, concerning Competency. The amendments are proposed to clarify the rule.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.9.Competency.

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

(c) Licensees maintain current knowledge of scientific and professional information that ensures competency in every [ any ] area in which they provide services.

(d) - (i) (No change.)

(j) Licensees refrain from initiating or continuing to undertake an activity when they know or should know that there is a substantial likelihood that personal problems or conflicts will prevent them from performing their work-related activities or producing a psychological report [ end product ] in a competent and timely manner. When licensees become aware of such conflicts, they must immediately take appropriate measures, such as obtaining professional consultation or assistance in order to determine whether they should limit, suspend, or terminate the engagement in accordance with Board Rule 465.21.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700636

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


22 TAC §465.22

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §465.22, concerning Psychological Records, Test Data and Test Protocols. The amendments are proposed to clarify the rule to state that falsifying patient records and reports is prohibited.

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

Ms. Lee also has determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to help the Board protect the public. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the amendments as proposed.

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

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

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

§465.22.Psychological Records, Test Data and Test Protocols.

(a) General Requirements.

(1) - (6) (No change.)

(7) Licensees are prohibited from falsifying, altering, fabricating, or back-dating patient records and reports.

(b) - (e) (No change.)

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700635

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


Chapter 470. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE

22 TAC §470.21

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §470.21, Disciplinary Guidelines. These amendments make the rule consistent with §470.22(b)(4) concerning revocation for licensure for fraud in obtaining a license.

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

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

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

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

No other code, articles or statutes are affected by this section.

§470.21.Disciplinary Guidelines.

(a) Purpose. The Purpose of the guidelines is to:

(1) Provide guidance and a framework of analysis for administrative law judges in the making of recommendations in contested licensure and disciplinary matters;

(2) Promote consistency in the exercise of sound discretion by the Board in the imposition of sanctions in disciplinary matters; and,

(3) Provide guidance for the resolution of potentially contested matters.

(b) Limitations. The Board [ board ] shall render the final decision in a contested case and has the responsibility to assess sanctions against licensees who are found to have violated the Act. The Board [ board ] welcomes recommendations of administrative law judges as to the sanctions to be imposed, but the Board [ board ] is not bound by such recommendations. A sanction should be consistent with sanctions imposed in other similar cases and should reflect the Board's [ board's ] determination of the seriousness of the violation and the sanction required to deter future violations. A determination of the appropriate sanction is reserved to the board. The appropriate sanction is not a proper finding of fact or conclusion of law. This chapter shall be construed and applied so as to preserve the Board's [ board member ] discretion in the imposition of sanctions and remedial measures pursuant to the Act's provisions related to methods of discipline and administrative penalties. This chapter shall be further construed and applied so as to be consistent with the Act, and shall be limited to the extent as otherwise prescribed by statute and Board [ board ] rule.

(c) Revocation. The Board shall revoke the license of any licensee if the Board determines that the continued practice of psychology by the licensee poses a harm to the public. Licensees who violate the following Board rules shall be subject to revocation without reference to subsections (e) through (g) of this section:

(1) §465.13(b)(3) and (b)(6) pertaining to certain forms of sexual impropriety with current patients;

(2) §465.33(d) as it pertains to sexual relations, defined in §465.33(c), with current patients; and

(3) §469.7 (d)(1)(A) [ (d)(5), (d)(8), and (d)(10) ] pertaining to offenses against the person (for example, homicide, kidnapping, sexual offenses, and assaultive offenses) [ certain felony convictions and judgments ].

(4) §461.16 as it pertains to serious falsification of an application or documentation to obtain a license or renewal, and therefore fraud in obtaining a license.

(d) - (g) (No change).

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700634

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


Chapter 473. FEES

22 TAC §473.7

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes amendments to §473.7, Penalties. These amendments clarify the rule.

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

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

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

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

No other code, articles or statutes are affected by this section.

§473.7.Penalties.

(a) Continuing education noncompliance--$250 ; and

(b) Disciplinary penalties (Refer to Rule 470.22).

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 20, 2007.

TRD-200700633

Sherry L. Lee

Executive Director

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 8, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7706


Part 24. TEXAS BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EXAMINERS

Chapter 573. RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

Subchapter G. OTHER PROVISIONS

22 TAC §573.77

The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners ("Board") proposes new §573.77, concerning Cease and Desist Procedures. The section reflects amendments by the 79th Legislature to the Veterinary Licensing Act (Chapter 801, Occupations Code), which authorize the Board to issue a cease and desist order to a person who is found to be engaging in the practice of veterinary medicine without a license. The new section allows the Board to consider complaints about the unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine that are not submitted on a standard complaint form as required by Board Rule, §575.27 (22 TAC §575.27). However, some form of written documentation is required. This documentation may be no more than a notation of a telephone conversation with the potential violator, or a business card indicating the illegal practice. With this information in hand, the Board can then investigate the complaint further to determine if it has merit. The complaint is forwarded to a staff committee of the Board which may draft a cease and desist order to the offender. If the offender wishes to decline the order, the complaint will be referred to an informal conference. If as a result of the informal conference a cease and desist order is determined to be necessary, the order will be forwarded to the offender, who may sign or decline to sign it. If he declines, the Board may refer the complaint to the State Office of Administrative Hearing for a contested case hearing and proposal for decision from the administrative law judge.

Dewey Helmcamp, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the new section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. Helmcamp has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will be to provide a procedure that will result in more aggressive prosecution of persons who engage in practices that constitute the practice of veterinary medicine without a license. Increased protection of the public from unqualified veterinary medicine practitioners will result from implementation of this section. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no economic cost to persons required to comply with the section as proposed, except to those persons identified as illegal practitioners will incur some expense in defending against complaints brought against them.

Comments on the proposed new section may be submitted in writing to Lee Mathews, Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-810, Austin, Texas 78701, phone (512) 305-7555, fax (512) 305-7556, e-mail vet.board@tbvme.state.tx.us and will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposal in the Texas Register .

The new section is proposed under the authority of the Veterinary Licensing Act, Texas Occupations Code, §801.151(a) which states that the Board may adopt rules necessary to administer the chapter.

The new section affects the Texas Occupations Code, §801.508, relating to cease and desist orders.

§573.77.Cease and Desist Procedures.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of a cease and desist proceeding is to determine whether a person has engaged in acts or practices that constitute the practice of veterinary medicine without a license ("respondent") in violation of Chapter 801 of the Occupations Code ("Veterinary Licensing Act") and whether the Board should issue a cease and desist order in accordance with the Veterinary Licensing Act, §801.508.

(b) Form of Complaint. Notwithstanding §575.27 of this title to the contrary, a complaint of someone practicing veterinary medicine without a license does not have to be submitted on a complaint form utilized by the Board. However, a complainant must submit some form of written documentation to the Board.

(c) Staff Committee Action.

(1) Upon the Board's receipt of a complaint and after a determination that a respondent may have engaged in the unlicensed practice of veterinary medicine, a staff committee as defined in §575.27 of this title may propose an agreed cease and desist order ("the order") to be presented to the respondent.

(2) If the respondent signs the order, it shall be effective and enforceable against the respondent upon receipt by the Board, but it shall not become final until approved by the Board.

(d) Informal Conference.

(1) If the Respondent chooses not to sign the order and requests a conference, or if the respondent does not respond after receipt of the order, the complaint shall be referred to an informal conference as defined by §575.27 of this title. If the conference committee determines that a violation of the Veterinary Licensing Act has occurred, it may propose a agreed cease and desist order with such settlement terms as it considers appropriate.

(2) If the respondent declines to sign the order, the Board may refer the complaint and investigative file to the State Office of Administrative Hearings for a contested case proceeding. Following the proceeding and issuance of a proposal for decision by the administrative law judge, the Board may take such action as appropriate.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 16, 2007.

TRD-200700595

Julie A. Barker

Executive Assistant

Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners

Proposed date of adoption: June 14, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7555


Chapter 575. PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

22 TAC §575.25

The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners ("Board") proposes amendments to §575.25, concerning Recommended Schedule of Sanctions. The section reflects amendments by the 79th Legislature to the Veterinary Licensing Act (Chapter 801, Occupations Code), which allow the Board to determine from a statutory menu of penalties the appropriate penalty to assess, depending on the seriousness of the offense, in cases where a license holder has been convicted of a felony under §485.032 (renumbered by the Legislature from §485.033), Chapter 481 (relating to controlled substances), or Chapter 483 (relating to dangerous drugs) of the Health and Safety Code. Previously, the Board was required to suspend a licensee's license upon a felony conviction under these statutes. The amended section allows the Board to exercise its discretion in determining the licensee's penalty, which may include a reprimand, an administrative penalty, suspension of license, probation of suspension, and revocation of license.

Section 575.25 contains a schedule of penalties depending on whether an offense is considered a Class A, B, or C offense. Class A offenses are the most serious, and include conviction of a felony. Class A offenses carry a maximum penalty of license revocation. Lesser penalties, such as suspension and probation of suspension, are by definition possible penalties. By including in Class A convictions under §483.032 and Chapters 481 and 483 of the Health and Safety Code, all of the range of penalties specified in Chapter 801 of the Occupations Code are available to the Board when a felony conviction is involved.

Dewey Helmcamp, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the amended section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. Helmcamp has also determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to assure that penalties are assessed in relation to the severity of the offense involved. A veterinarian's license is not automatically suspended for a less serious offense. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no economic cost to persons required to comply with the amended section as proposed.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted in writing to Lee Mathews, Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-810, Austin, Texas 78701, phone (512) 305-7555, fax (512) 305-7556, e-mail vet.board@tbvme.state.tx.us and will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposal in the Texas Register .

The amendments are proposed under the authority of the Veterinary Licensing Act, Texas Occupations Code, §801.151(a) which states that the Board may adopt rules necessary to administer the chapter.

The amendments affect the Texas Occupations Code, §801.406, relating to disciplinary actions for certain felony convictions.

§575.25.Recommended Schedule of Sanctions.

(a) Class A violations. Licensees considered as presenting imminent peril to the public will be considered Class A violations. In determining whether a violation is a Class A, consideration will be given to the disposition of any previously docketed cases, and to the combination of charges which might involve Class B and/or C violations.

(1) Class A violations may include, but are not limited to:

(A) conviction of a felony , including a felony conviction under the Health and Safety Code, §485.032 (formerly numbered §485.033) relating to Delivery of an Abusable Volatile Chemical to a Minor, or Chapters 481 relating to Controlled Substances, or Chapter 483 relating to Dangerous Drugs ;

(B) - (I) (No change.)

(2) - (3) (No change.)

(b) - (c) (No change.)

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 16, 2007.

TRD-200700596

Julie A. Barker

Executive Assistant

Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners

Proposed date of adoption: June 14, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7555


Chapter 577. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

Subchapter A. BOARD MEMBERS AND MEETINGS--DUTIES

22 TAC §577.1

The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners ("Board") proposes amendments to §577.1, concerning Officers. The section reflects an amendment by the 79th Legislature to the Veterinary Licensing Act (Chapter 801, Occupations Code), which provides that the Governor shall appoint the presiding officer of the Board. Previously, the Board elected its president, along with the secretary and vice-president. The amended section reflects this change in the law.

Dewey Helmcamp, Executive Director, has determined that for the first five-year period the amended section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. Helmcamp has also determined that for each year of the first five years the amendments are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amended section will be to attain compliance with the recent changes to the statute, and inform the public of the manner in which Board officers are appointed or elected. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no economic cost to any persons required to comply with the amended section as proposed.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted in writing to Lee Mathews, Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-810, Austin, Texas 78701, phone (512) 305-7555, fax (512) 305-7556, e-mail vet.board@tbvme.state.tx.us and will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposal in the Texas Register .

The amendments are proposed under the authority of the Veterinary Licensing Act, Texas Occupations Code, §801.151(a) which states that the Board may adopt rules necessary to administer the chapter.

The amendments affect the Texas Occupations Code, §801.055, relating to officers of the Board.

§577.1.Officers.

[ (a) ] The officers of the Board [ board ] shall be a president, a vice-president, and a secretary . The president is appointed by the Governor. The vice-president and secretary are elected by the Board members at the first meeting of each fiscal year; take office immediately after the close of such meeting; serve for one year; and may be re-elected. [ , elected for one year, and each may be reelected. Officers shall be elected during the first meeting of the fiscal year and shall take office immediately after the close of such meeting. ]

[(b) Each officer and board member shall perform the duties incumbent upon his office and membership and such other duties as are assigned to him by vote of the board. Between meetings, the president of the board may assign specific duties to a member.]

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 16, 2007.

TRD-200700597

Julie A. Barker

Executive Assistant

Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners

Proposed date of adoption: June 14, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 305-7555