SRC-AXB C.S.S.B. 1353 76(R)BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research CenterC.S.S.B. 1353 By: Barrientos State Affairs 5/4/1999 Committee Report (Substituted) 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. C.S.S.B. 1353 creates software engineering regulation. PURPOSE As proposed, C.S.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. Requires the Texas Board of Professional Engineers to form an advisory committee of individuals knowledgeable in software engineering, computer science, and consulting engineering. Requires the advisory committee to review certain rationale, develop a definition of software engineering, and consider certain issues. Prohibits the board from issuing a license for software engineering prior to implementation of the advisory committee's recommendations. Sets forth provisions for an individual who holds software expertise certification. SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 1999. SECTION 3. Emergency clause. SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE CHANGES SECTION 1. Deletes proposed text of SECTION 1. Amends Section 12.2, Article 3271a, V.T.C.S., Texas Engineering Practice Act, to add text regarding the regulation of software engineering. SECTION 2. Creates an effective date of September 1, 1999. SECTION 3. Redesignated from SECTION 2. Deletes proposed effective date of upon passage.