SRC-AXB S.B. 1353 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 1353
76R7504  SMH-DBy: Barrientos
State Affairs
4/28/1999
As Filed


DIGEST 

In June 1998, Texas became the first state to adopt software engineering as
a distinct discipline under which engineering licenses can be issued.
However, it has been proposed that prior to the licensure or regulation of
software engineers, the Board of Professional Engineers should ensure that
a national examination for software engineers is developed and that Texas
has offered accredited degree programs long enough for applicants to meet
education and experience requirements of licensure. S.B. 1353 creates
software engineering regulation. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 1353 creates software engineering regulation.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Article 3271a, V.T.C.S., Texas Engineering Practice Act,
by adding Section 12.2, as follows: 

Sec.  12.2.  REGULATION OF SOFTWARE ENGINEERING.  Defines "institution of
higher education."  Prohibits the Texas Board of Professional Engineers
(TBPE) from regulating software engineering (SE) before the completion of
certain actions.  Provides that a person is not required to obtain an SE
license if engaged in SE prior to the commencement of TBPE regulations.
Prohibits TBPE from certifying a person as having expertise with regard to
the software of a particular manufacturer. 

SECTION 2.Emergency clause.
  Effective date:  upon passage.