The bill, H.B. No. 3250, aims to enhance the regulation of real estate appraisers and appraisal management companies in Texas by introducing a stipend program for appraiser trainees and certified appraisers who serve as supervisory appraisers. This program, established under the new Section 1103.164, will provide stipends to promote professional needs, increase the number of qualified appraisers, and improve the business environment for economic development. The board will consider financial need when awarding stipends and will fund the program through gifts, grants, and donations. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the Occupations Code to update application requirements, employment restrictions, and the handling of administrative penalties.

Key amendments include the requirement for applicants to provide their business address and email, the introduction of stricter employment restrictions for appraisal management companies regarding individuals with revoked licenses, and the remittance of administrative penalties to the general revenue fund instead of a restricted fund. The bill also clarifies the roles of the board and the executive director in investigating complaints and managing agreed orders. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, unless the bill receives a two-thirds vote for immediate effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 1103.203, Occupations Code 1104.104, Occupations Code 1104.151, Occupations Code 1104.202, Occupations Code 1104.205, Occupations Code 1104.208, Occupations Code 1104.2081 (Occupations Code 1104, Occupations Code 1103)