Article
In recent columns I have discussed various state agencies, and this week I will continue with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The Department is charged with regulating 22 occupations and industries within the state, therefore affecting many Texans and their livelihoods.
The industries TDLR regulates are extremely diverse: barbering; combative sports, such as boxing; cosmetology; for-profit legal services; loss-damage waivers; personnel employment services; service contract providers; staff leasing services; talent agencies; temporary common worker providers; vehicle protection product warrantors; auctioneers; licensed court interpreters; property tax consultants; air conditioning and refrigeration; the architectural barriers; boiler safety; electricians; elevator and escalator safety; industrialized housing/buildings; water well drillers and pump installers; and weather modification. In order to effectively regulate such different industries, the Department has standardized many of the processes and much of the paperwork. The staff is required to have a breadth of knowledge in order to assist the public.
Texas statutes often dictate that a specific industry, such as cosmetology, be subject to licensing. The Department is charged with implementing the licensing process, and development of requirements for specific licenses. Continuing education classes, required for some occupations such as cosmetology and electricians, are also developed by the Department. Public complaints, compliance, inspections, and enforcement aspects are also under the purview of TDLR. Before new rules relating to a license are adopted, the Department seeks public input in order to foster an open and efficient regulatory process.
TDLR is governed by a seven member commission whose members are appointed by the Governor. To prohibit conflicts of interest, no commissioner may have a financial interest in any of the regulated programs. The commissioners most recently met on February 2, 2006, to adopt new rules for the barbering and cosmetology industries. Until recently, these two occupations were regulated by separate agencies, but were moved under the TDLR.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation's website, www.license.state.tx.us, lists recent actions taken by the commission and other relevant news. It also contains links to statutes and other information on licensing requirements for each of the industries it regulates. TDLR can also be contacted by phone at 800/803-9202.
If you would like additional information regarding this or any other matter of state government, you can contact me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.
Gallery