The bill amends the definition of "master plumber" in Section 1301.002(5) of the Occupations Code, specifically altering the experience requirement for licensure. The new language stipulates that a candidate must have worked as a journeyman plumber for at least two years, a reduction from the previous requirement of four years. Alternatively, a candidate can qualify with just one year of experience if they have successfully completed a training program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship or another nationally recognized program accepted by the board.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners adopt necessary rules to implement these changes and clarifies that the amended requirements will apply only to applications submitted on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Applications submitted prior to this date will continue to be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 1301.002 (Occupations Code 1301)