Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1474

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the procedure by which state agencies adopt rules, including legislative approval of certain rules proposed or adopted by state agencies.

Impact

If enacted, SB1474 will affect various state regulations by placing additional checks on state agencies, which have traditionally operated with considerable autonomy in rule adoption. The requirement for legislative approval may slow down the rule-making process, offering lawmakers the opportunity to review and modify proposals before they are finalized. Proponents argue that this will help align regulations more closely with public interests and provide a platform for public input during legislative sessions, ultimately leading to better governance.

Summary

SB1474 introduces significant changes to the procedures by which state agencies adopt rules, primarily by requiring legislative approval for certain proposed or emergency rules. The bill stipulates that a state agency must file copies of its proposed or emergency rules with the legislature, ensuring these rules are subject to scrutiny and debate by elected officials. This shift aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the rule-making process, as the legislature will have a more direct role in overseeing state agencies' regulatory powers.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1474 include concerns raised by some legislators about potential delays in rule implementation due to the added legislative oversight. Critics argue that lengthy review processes could hinder state agencies from responding promptly to urgent matters or emergencies that necessitate quick regulatory action. Additionally, there are fears that legislative approval could introduce political bias into agency rule-making, possibly complicating regulations that serve public welfare but have insufficient political backing.

Companion Bills

TX SJR61

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for legislative review or approval of state agency rules.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1259

Relating to the establishment of the State Agency Rules Review Commission and the procedures by which state agencies adopt rules.

TX HB5083

Relating to the adoption and review of rules by state agencies.

TX HB587

Relating to a requirement that certain rules proposed by state agencies in the executive branch of state government be approved by certain elected state officials.

TX HB3836

Relating to a requirement that certain rules proposed by state agencies in the executive branch of state government be approved by certain elected state officials.

TX SB2557

State agencies; notify Legislature of proposed rule adoption.

TX SB2278

State agencies; notify Legislature of proposed rule adoption.

TX SB995

Administrative Procedures Act; proposed permanent rules; requiring legislative approval for final rule adoption. Emergency.

TX SB995

Administrative Procedures Act; proposed permanent rules; requiring legislative approval for final rule adoption. Emergency.

TX SB14

Relating to reforming the procedure by which state agencies adopt rules and impose regulatory requirements and the deference given to the interpretation of laws and rules by state agencies in certain judicial proceedings.

TX HB10

Relating to reforming the procedure by which state agencies adopt rules and impose regulatory requirements and the deference given to the interpretation of laws and rules by state agencies in certain judicial proceedings.

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