Draft and Proposed Rules - Asbestos Program

DRAFT TEXAS ASBESTOS HEALTH PROTECTION RULES AVAILABLE FOR INFORMAL COMMENT

The draft Texas Asbestos Health Protection Rules (TAHPR) were posted for informal comment here and on the HHS Rulemaking webpage on November 15, 2023.

Technical questions regarding the rules can be emailed to AsbestosHelp@dshs.texas.gov.

Rulemaking process questions can be emailed to the EHG Rules Coordinator.

Tentative Asbestos Rules Timeline

June 21, 2024             Proposed Rules Published in the Texas Register

July 22, 2024              30-day Formal Public Comment Period Ends

October 18, 2024         Adopted Rules Published in the Texas Register

October 23, 2024         Rules Effective Date

Informal Comment Submission for the Draft Asbestos Rules

DSHS is proposing to adopt rules to implement Senate Bill 422, 88^th Legislature, Regular Session, 2023, extending occupational licensing reciprocity to military service members. DSHS amends the DSHS-wide rule in 25 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §1.81, concerning Recognition of Out-of-State License of a Military Service Member and Military Spouse, referenced in 25 TAC §296.131. DSHS also adopts a new §1.91, concerning Alternative Licensing for Military Service Members, Military Spouses, and Military Veterans.

Section 296.131 is being repealed as this section does not establish rule requirements beyond those in 25 TAC §1.81 and §1.91. Repealing §296.131 avoids repetitive or inconsistent rule language with updated rules.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is accepting informal comments on the draft rules from stakeholders through December 1, 2023, but will not respond to comments received during the informal comment period.

The Texas Asbestos Health Protection Rules took effect on July 8, 2021. View copies of the rules at The Asbestos Program – Laws and rules. 

Email Asbestos Help for technical questions or EHG Rules Coordinator for rule process questions.