SRC-DPW S.B. 1744 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1744 763606 WP-DBy: Armbrister State Affairs 4/14/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, Texas does not have a statewide policy governing the manner by which state agencies interact with businesses. The Texas Performance Review held focus groups in 10 Texas cities to allow business representatives to voice concerns regarding state regulatory practices. Some business representatives voiced concern over the state sensitivity concerning compliance issues and practices, and a lack of individual input before the implementation of new rules. This bill would require the governor to establish a basic set of rights for businesses. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1744 creates a bill of rights for Texas businesses. 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 the chapter heading to Chapter 2006, Government Code, as follows: CHAPTER 2006. New heading: AGENCY ACTIONS AFFECTING BUSINESSES SECTION 2. Amends Chapter 2006, Government Code, by adding Subchapter C, as follows: SUBCHAPTER C. OTHER AGENCY ACTIONS AFFECTING BUSINESSES Sec. 2006.021. BILL OF RIGHTS FOR BUSINESSES. Requires the governor to create a bill of rights for businesses of this state outlining the behavior expected from state agencies as they enforce state laws. Requires the bill of rights to give businesses the right to expect certain qualities, modes of operation, and commitments from state agencies with whom they interact. Requires the governor to appoint an officer to act as an ombudsman for state businesses who is required to receive and keep records of complaints by businesses about problems with state government. Authorizes an agency's effort to reduce rules and comply with the bill of rights to be considered as part of its evaluation when reviewed under Chapter 325 (Texas Sunset Act). SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 1999. SECTION 4. Emergency clause.