Source: http://sos.state.tx.us/texreg/sos/PROPOSED/37.PUBLIC%20SAFETY%20AND%20CORRECTIONS.html
Timestamp: 2013-05-21 00:56:59
Document Index: 450129214

Matched Legal Cases: ['§3', '§3', '§2001', '§3', '§2001', '§411', '§2001', '§411', '§2001', '§3', '§3', '§3', '§2001', '§3', '§3', '§3', '§2001', '§3', '§3', '§19', '§19', '§2001', '§2001', '§724', '§724', '§411', '§2001', '§19', '§19', '§19', '§19', '§19', '§19', '§19', '§32', '§32', '§2001', '§32', '§32', '§32', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§411', '§1956', '§1956', '§1956', '§411', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§53', '§1956', '§1956', '§3', '§53', '§53', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§1956', '§411', '§1956', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36', '§36']

SUBCHAPTER B. ENFORCEMENT ACTION
37 TAC §3.28
(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed
for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the
offices of the Texas Department of Public Safety or in the Texas Register
office, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin, Texas.)
The Texas Department of Public Safety (the
department) proposes the repeal of §3.28, concerning Citation
Disposition Receipt Program. Pursuant to Government Code, §2001.039,
the department reviewed this chapter and determined the reason for
initially adopting this rule no longer exists, therefore the repeal
of §3.28 is necessary. Denise Hudson, Assistant Director, Finance, has determined that
for each year of the first five-year period the repeal is in effect
there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government
or local economies. Ms. Hudson has also determined that there will be no adverse economic
effect on small businesses or micro-businesses required to comply
with the repeal as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost
to individuals who are required to comply with the repeal as proposed.
There is no anticipated negative impact on local employment. In addition, Ms. Hudson has also determined that for each year
of the first five-year period the repeal is in effect, the public
benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the repeal will be current
and updated rules. The department has determined that this proposal is not a "major
environmental rule" as defined by Texas Government Code, §2001.0225.
"Major environmental rule" is defined to mean a rule the specific
intent of which is to protect the environment or reduce risk to human
health from environmental exposure and that may adversely affect,
in a material way, the economy, a sector of the economy, productivity,
competition, jobs, the environment or the public health and safety
of a state or a sector of the state. This proposal is not specifically
intended to protect the environment or reduce risks to human health
from environmental exposure. The department has determined that Chapter 2007 of the Texas Government
Code does not apply to this proposal. Accordingly, the department
is not required to complete a takings impact assessment regarding
this proposal. Comments on this proposal may be submitted to Major Ron Joy, Texas
Highway Patrol Division, Texas Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box
4087, Austin, Texas 78773-0500, (512) 424-2115. Comments must be received
no later than thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this
proposal. This repeal is proposed pursuant to Texas Government
Code, §411.004(3), which authorizes the Public Safety Commission
to adopt rules considered necessary for carrying out the department's
work, and §2001.039, which requires state agencies to review
their rules and readopt, readopt with amendments, or repeal a rule
as the result of reviewing the rule under this section. Texas Government Code, §411.004(3) and §2001.039, are
affected by this proposal. §3.28.Citation Disposition Receipt Program.
Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on April 19, 2013.
TRD-201301587
Earliest possible date of adoption: June 2, 2013
SUBCHAPTER D. TRAFFIC SUPERVISION
37 TAC §3.57
The Texas Department of Public Safety (the department)
proposes amendments to §3.57, concerning Traffic Warrant Service.
Pursuant to Government Code, §2001.039, the department reviewed
this chapter and determined an update to this rule was necessary to
reflect the current procedures and requirements as determined by Texas
Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 15.17 and the courts in reference
to the disposition of a served traffic warrant.
Denise Hudson, Assistant Director, Finance, has determined that
for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect
or local economies.
Ms. Hudson has also determined that there will be no adverse economic
with the rule as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost to
individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.
In addition, Ms. Hudson has also determined that for each year
of the first five-year period the rule is in effect, the public benefit
anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be to ensure to
the public greater compliance by drivers and passengers with all of
the statutes and regulations pertaining to the safe operation of vehicles
The department has determined that this proposal is not a "major
The department has determined that Chapter 2007 of the Texas Government
Comments on this proposal may be submitted to Major Ron Joy, Texas
These amendments are made pursuant to Texas Government
affected by this proposal.
§3.57.Traffic Warrant Service.
[(a)] [Warrant actually served.]
When a traffic warrant is actually served and the defendant is
the arresting officer will handle the defendant
as prescribed by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure,
Article 15.17. [(b) Alternate method for disposing
of traffic warrant without arrest of defendant. When the magistrate
issuing the warrant has indicated a willingness to accept a stated
amount of fine upon a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, this information
will be given to the defendant and the following explanations will
be made to him.]
[(1) The defendant has a right to make bond and appear
in court in person, and the alternate method of disposing of this
case is extended to the defendant as a courtesy and the terms thereof
are not subject to modification or negotiation by the officer who
has the warrant.]
[(2) The defendant's cashier's check or money order
for the amount stated, payable to the judge who issued the warrant,
will be attached to the unserved warrant and returned through department
channels to the court with the notation that the alternate method
of disposing of his case was chosen and the warrant was not served.]
[(3) Cash money may be accepted by commissioned officers
in payment of a traffic warrant only when a cashier's check or money
order is not readily available. Officers accepting cash under these
circumstances will execute the proper receipt form and cause the money
and a copy of the receipt to be mailed by the defendant in a U.S.
postal receptacle to the appropriate court.]
[(4) When the unserved warrant and defendant's cashier's
check, money order, or cash are received by the court, this will be
considered as a plea of nolo contendere to the charge against him.] [(5) The decision to handle the case in the alternate
method or appear in court is entirely up to the defendant.]
TRD-201301586
37 TAC §3.61
department) proposes the repeal of §3.61, concerning Safety Responsibility
Activities. Pursuant to Government Code, §2001.039, the department
reviewed this chapter and determined the reason for initially adopting
this rule no longer exists, therefore the repeal of §3.61 is necessary. Denise Hudson, Assistant Director, Finance, has determined that
no later than thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this proposal. This repeal is proposed pursuant to Texas Government
affected by this proposal. §3.61.Safety Responsibility Activities.
TRD-201301588
SUBCHAPTER A. BREATH ALCOHOL TESTING REGULATIONS
37 TAC §§19.1, 19.2, 19.4 - 19.6
proposes amendments to §§19.1, 19.2, and 19.4 - 19.6, concerning
Breath Alcohol Testing Regulations. Pursuant to Government Code, §2001.039,
the department reviewed Chapter 19, Breath Alcohol Resting Regulations,
and determined an update to these rules was necessary to allow the
Department greater flexibility to efficiently carry out the provisions
of Chapter 19. Furthermore, the amendments will clarify the intent
for each year of the first five-year period the rules are in effect
with the rules as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost
to individuals who are required to comply with the rules as proposed.
of the first five-year period the rules are in effect, the public
benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be increased
efficiency and clarification of the rules thereby minimizing misinterpretation.
Comments on this proposal may be submitted to Randall Beaty, Crime
Laboratory Service, Texas Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box 4087,
Austin, Texas 78773. Comments must be received no later than thirty
(30) days from the date of publication of this proposal.
work; §2001.039, which requires state agencies to review their
rules and readopt, readopt with amendments, or repeal a rule as the
result of reviewing the rule under this section; Texas Transportation
Code, §724.016, which authorizes the department to establish
rules approving satisfactory analytical methods; and §724.003,
which authorizes the department to adopt rules to administer Chapter
724 of the Texas Transportation Code.
Texas Government Code, §411.004(3) and §2001.039, and
Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 724, are affected by this proposal.
§19.1.Definitions.
The following words and phrases, when used in this chapter,
shall have the following meanings, unless the context shall clearly
(17) Reference sample device [Sample
Device]--An apparatus or device designed to provide a reference
sample or analytical test standard.
(18) - (19) (No change.)
(20) Scientific director [Director]--The
individual or his designee responsible for the implementation,
administration and enforcement of the Texas breath alcohol testing
(21) - (24) (No change.)
(25) Technical supervisor [Supervisor]
and technical supervision--An individual meeting the minimum requirements
set forth in §19.6 of this title (relating to Technical Supervisor
Certification) and the responsibilities of such.
§19.2.Instrument Certification.
(a) The Office of the Scientific Director, Alcohol
Testing Program, Texas Department of Public Safety (hereinafter referred
to as the scientific director) shall approve and certify all breath
test instruments to be used for evidential purposes.
(2) A manufacturer or designated representative desiring
approval of an instrument not on the approved list may submit an instrument
to the scientific director [a production model of the instrument].
Examination and evaluation of the instrument to determine if it meets
the criteria for approval or certification as an evidential instrument
will be done at the discretion of the scientific director. Costs [All shipping costs
] associated with such a submission will be
done at the expense of the submitting entity.
(b) In order to be approved each instrument must meet
(1) Breath specimens [collected] for analysis
shall be essentially alveolar or deep lung air in composition.
(c) Upon proof of compliance with subsection (b) of
this section the instrument will be placed on the list of approved
(1) Inclusion on the scientific director's list of
approved instruments will verify that the instrument by manufacturer
brand or model designation meets the criteria of subsection
§19.4.Approval of Techniques, Methods and Programs.
(c) All breath alcohol testing techniques, in order
to be approved, shall meet, but not be limited to, the following:
(8) designation that the instrumentation will be used only:
(A) for testing subjects that are suspected of violating
any statute or codified rule that defines intoxication
in terms of alcohol concentration; and
§19.5.Operator Certification.
(1) Prior to certification an applicant must establish
proof of participation in a breath test program meeting the requirements
set forth in §19.4 of this title (relating to Approval of Techniques,
Methods[,] and Programs).
(C) persons receiving a driver license suspension for
refusal to submit to a chemical test as per the provisions of Texas
Transportation Code, Chapter 724 or Chapter 522[, Texas
Transportation Code] within the last five [ten]
years shall not be eligible to be a certified operator.
[(1)] Certification that has been inactivated
or suspended must be regained before evidential analyses may be administered.
It will be the responsibility of the inactivated or suspended operator
to notify the scientific director [in writing] of such
intent. Recertification shall take place pursuant to the following:
(1) [(A)] recertification after
inactivation for the failure to complete the renewal process prior
to the expiration of current certification will be pursuant to subsection
(a)(4) of this section;
(2) [(B)] recertification after
inactivation or suspension will be pursuant to subsection (a)(4) of
[(C) recertification after
an inactivation or suspension period of greater than five years the
operator must attend and satisfactorily complete the initial course
of instruction for certification of a breath test operator pursuant
to subsection (a) of this section.]
(3) [(D)] recertification after
a change in instrumentation or testing methodologies will be at the
discretion of the scientific director, pursuant to subsection (a)(6)
§19.6.Technical Supervisor Certification.
(a) The primary function of the technical supervisor
is to provide the technical, administrative and supervisory expertise
in safeguarding the scientific integrity of the breath alcohol testing
program and to assure the breath alcohol testing program's acceptability
for evidential purposes. The technical supervisor, in matters pertaining
to breath alcohol testing, is the field agent of the scientific director.
Supervision by the technical supervisor in accordance with the provisions
stated in these regulations shall include, but not be limited to:
(2) supervision of certified instrumentation, reference
sample devices and affiliated equipment [in an assigned area];
(3) supervision of data gathered for initial certification
and/or approval of individual instruments and reference sample devices
[in an assigned area];
(7) all technical, administrative and regulatory aspects
of breath alcohol testing [within a designated area]; and
(8) expert testimony by direct testimony or by written
affidavit concerning all aspects of breath alcohol testing [within
an assigned area].
(b) The minimum qualifications for certification as
a technical supervisor are:
Transportation Code,] within the last five [ten]
years shall not be eligible to be a certified technical supervisor.
TRD-201301589
CHAPTER 32. BICYCLES--USE AND SAFETY
37 TAC §§32.1 - 32.3
(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed
for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in
the offices of the Texas Department of Public Safety or in the Texas
Register office, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin, Texas.)
department) proposes the repeal of §§32.1 - 32.3, concerning
Bicycles--Use and Safety. Pursuant to Government Code, §2001.039,
the department reviewed this chapter and determined the reasons for
initially adopting these rules no longer exist. This chapter is obsolete
and the Bicycle Safety Program at the department is defunct. Denise Hudson, Assistant Director, Finance, has determined that
for each year of the first five-year period the repeals are in effect
with the repeals as proposed. There is no anticipated economic cost
to individuals who are required to comply with the repeals as proposed.
of the first five-year period the repeals are in effect, the public
benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the repeals will be current
this proposal. Comments on this proposal may be submitted to Beth Warren, Employee
Development, Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, Texas
78773. Comments must be received no later than thirty (30) days from
the date of publication of this proposal. This repeal is proposed pursuant to Texas Government
affected by this proposal. §32.1.Definitions. §32.2.Use of Electric Bicycles. §32.3.Bicycle Safety and Education Program.
TRD-201301590
37 TAC §§36.1 - 36.7, 36.9 - 36.24
proposes amendments to §§36.1 - 36.7, 36.9 - 36.14, 36.17
and 36.18 and proposes new §§36.15, 36.16 and 36.19 - 36.24,
concerning Metals Registration. This proposal is filed simultaneously
with the repeal of current §§36.15, 36.16 and 36.19 - 36.21.
Many of the proposed amendments are necessitated by amendments to
Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1956 (the Act) as a result of 82nd
Legislature, 2011, Senate Bill (SB) 694. Other amendments are required
to facilitate the department's move toward online and electronic application
submission and data collection. These proposals are necessary to reorganize
existing language, improve clarity, and to establish consistency when
possible with other programs within the department's Regulatory Services
Division. Each rule has also been amended to eliminate references
to paper forms and to establish the requirement of online submissions. Specifically, §36.1 is amended to strike the reference to
"dealer of crafted precious metals" within the definition of applicant,
in accordance with the statutory change to the registration of such
entities effected through SB 694. Section 36.9 is amended to clarify the requirements for the renewal
of registrations. Section 36.12 is amended to modify the criteria for which the department
will revoke a certificate of registration, to include the submission
of a dishonored or invalid payment. Section 36.14 is amended to remove redundant language. New §36.15 provides guidance for staff and licensees regarding
the procedure for obtaining an exemption from the electronic reporting
requirements of SB 694, as authorized by the bill. Section 36.19 is repealed, as dealers of crafted precious metals
are no longer regulated by the department pursuant to SB 694. The
original language from former §36.20, concerning Fees, is transferred
to new §36.19. Language in new §36.19 is changed to reflect
that application fees are non-refundable and to clarify the procedure
for online payment of fees. New §36.20 is proposed pursuant to the requirements of SB
694, relating to the documentation required of those who would sell
burned insulation wire. New §§36.21, 36.22 and 36.23 are based on the requirements
of Occupations Code, Chapter 55, relating to accommodations for applicants
and spouses of applicants who are members of the military. New §36.24 clarifies the scope of the registration as being
limited to a single physical location. Denise Hudson, Assistant Director, Finance, has determined that
for each year of the first five-year period the proposal is in effect
with the amendments and new sections as proposed. There is no anticipated
economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the amendments
and new sections as proposed. There is no anticipated negative impact
on local employment. In addition, Ms. Hudson has also determined that for each year
of the first five-year period the proposal is in effect, the public
benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the proposal will be
a reduction in metal theft and related crimes and improved efficiency
in the administration of the statute through greater use of online
portals, electronic data transmission and storage. The department has determined that this proposal is not a "major
this proposal. Comments on this proposal may be submitted to Steve Moninger, Office
of Regulatory Counsel, Regulatory Services Division, Department of
Public Safety, P.O. Box 4087, MSC-0246, Austin, Texas 78752-0246,
(512) 424-5842. Comments must be received no later than thirty (30)
days from the date of publication of this proposal. These new and amended rules are proposed pursuant to
Texas Government Code, §411.004(3), which authorizes the Public
Safety Commission to adopt rules considered necessary for carrying
out the Department's work; Texas Occupations Code, §1956.013,
which allows the commission to adopt rules establishing minimum requirements
for registration and adopt required forms; §1956.014, which allows
the commission to prescribe fees in reasonable amounts sufficient
to cover the costs of administering the Act; and §1956.032(a)(5)
and (h), which require that the commission adopt rules establishing
the type of documentation required of those who seek to sell burned
insulation wire. Texas Government Code, §411.004(3), and Texas Occupations
Code, §§1956.013, 1956.014 and 1956.032(a)(5) and (h), are
affected by this proposal. §36.1.Definitions.
(a) Act--Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1956. (b) Applicant--A person [Any owner,
corporate officer, and/or operator of a metal recycling entity, or
a dealer of crafted precious metal] who has applied for registration
under the Act. (c) Business owner--A proprietor, partner, member, or individual. (d) Commission--The Public Safety Commission. (e) Department--The Texas Department of Public Safety. (f) Fixed location--A building or structure for which
a certificate of occupancy can be issued. (g) On-site representative--A person responsible for
the day-to-day operation of the location. (h) Person--A corporation, organization, agency, business
trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, holder of a certificate
of registration, an individual, or [and] any
other legal entity. (i) Program--The Metals Registration Program. (j) Registrant--A person who holds a certificate of
registration covered by this chapter. (k) Revocation--The withdrawal of authority to act
as a metal recycling entity under the Act. (l) Statutory agent--The natural person [or entity
] to whom any legal notice may be delivered for [at
] each location. (m) Suspension--A temporary cessation of the authority
to act as a metal recycling entity under the Act. §36.2.Address on File.
(a) All registrants or applicants [shall]
at all times shall maintain on file with the department
their current mailing and principal place of business address. The
principal place of business address must be a physical address and
may not be a post office box. (b) All registrants or applicants [shall]
a current and valid electronic mail address. (c) All registrants shall notify the department of
any change of their mailing or electronic mail address using [by completing the Change of Address Form (MRB 7) on
] the department's online application [program's website
] prior to the effective date of the change of address. §36.3.Notice.
(a) The department is entitled to rely on the mailing
and electronic mail address currently on file for all purposes relating
to notification. The failure to maintain a current mailing and electronic
mail address with the department is not a defense to any action based
on the registrant's or applicant's failure to respond. (b) Service upon the registrant or applicant of notice
is complete and receipt is presumed upon the date the notice is sent,
if sent before 5:00 p.m. by facsimile or electronic mail, and the
department receives confirmation of the transmission. [, and] If the notice is received after 5:00 p.m. or on a
weekend or holiday, it is considered received on the next business
day. Receipt is presumed three days following the date sent,
if by regular United States mail. (c) The department shall notify the applicant of the
denial of an application for a certificate of registration or renewal
application for a certificate of registration and the registrant of
reprimands, suspensions, or revocations of certificates of registration
by certified mail, return receipt requested. §36.4.Application for Certificate of Registration.
[(a) No metal recycling entity may
operate until they have received a certificate of registration certifying
a completed application and payment of fees. Any metal recycling entity
that had an active free registration may continue to operate until
that registration expires or for 60 days, whichever is earlier, before
obtaining a certificate of registration which requires the payment
of fees. A person who is required to register and who is not registered
may apply for registration at any time.]
(a) [(b)] A certificate of registration
[as required by subsection (a) of this section] may only
be obtained through the department's online application process. [
by submitting an Application for Certificate of Registration (MRB
1) to the department using online forms provided by the department
via the program's website at https://records.txdps.state.tx.us/DPS_WEB/MetalsNew/index.aspx
]. (b) [(c)] The application
for certificate of registration must include [
MRB 1 includes], but is not limited to, the following: (1) Criminal history disclosure of all convictions
and deferred adjudications for [each person providing a signature
for the application,] each person listed as a business owner
engaged in the regular course of business of a metal recycling entity
on the application[, and each person designated as an on-site
representative on the application]. (2) Proof of ownership [entity form]
and current status as required by the department. Such proof includes,
but is not limited to a current Certificate of Existence or Certificate
of Authority from the Texas Office of the Secretary of State and a
Certificate of Good Standing from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. (3) All fees required pursuant to §36.19 [§36.21
] of this title (relating to Fees). (c) [(d)] Applicants proposing to conduct [
conducting] business at more than one
location must complete an application [MRB 1]
for each location [at which the applicant proposes to conduct
business] and obtain a certificate of registration for each
location [at which the applicant proposes to conduct business]. [(e) An applicant for a certificate
of registration may not, within two years prior to the date of the
application, have previously:] [(1) had a certificate of registration revoked;] [(2) obtained a certificate of registration by means
of fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment of material fact;] [(3) sold, bartered, or offered to sell or barter a
certificate of registration; or] [(4) violated §1956.040(b) of the Act.]
(d) [(f)] An applicant must submit
a disclosure pursuant to [Statutory Agent Disclosure
as described in] §36.5 of this title (relating to Statutory
Agent Disclosure) along with the application [MRB 1]. (e) [(g)] The failure of an applicant
to meet any of the conditions of subsections (a) - (d) [(a)- (f)
] of this section will result in rejection [be
grounds for denial] of the application as incomplete [under §1956.151 of the Act]. §36.5.Statutory Agent Disclosure.
(a) Statutory agent disclosure information [
The Statutory Agent Disclosure (MRB 2) form] must be submitted [completed
] by all applicants for each location
at which the applicant is seeking to conduct business. [The statutory
agent is the person to whom any legal notice may be delivered at each
location.] Each person [or entity] applying for a
certificate of registration must designate a natural person as the
statutory agent and provide a physical address where that natural
person may be located. This address may not be a post office box.
(b) Modification of the statutory agent disclosure
information [A new MRB 2] must be submitted
using the department's online application [filed]
whenever the statutory agent is changed and all required fees
must be paid pursuant to §36.19 of this title (relating to Fees)
[changes]. [(c) A $10 fee for filing will be
charged for filing a form MRB 2 alone, without an initial application
or application for renewal.]
§36.6.Change in Ownership.
(a) The [A registrant must notify the]
department must be notified of any change in [each
time the] ownership structure or registrant status within
five business days of the effective date of the change. Notification
must be through the department's online application. All fees required
pursuant to §36.19 of this title (relating to Fees) must be paid
at the time of notification [of a registrant changes by
completing a Change in Ownership (MRB 3) form as soon as such a change
has taken effect]. (b) The registrant must submit amended proof of ownership
[entity form] and status as required by the department. [(c) A $10 fee for filing will be
charged for filing a form MRB 3 alone, without an initial application
§36.7.Application Review.
(a) [Initial review.] If an incomplete application
is received, [notice will be sent to] the applicant will be notified of the deficiency and provided 20 calendar days after
receipt of notice to submit the missing information. If an applicant
fails to furnish the missing information within 20 calendar days,
the application will be rejected as incomplete [stating
that the application is incomplete and specifying the information
required for acceptance]. [(b) Incomplete application. The applicant
has 20 calendar days after receipt of notice to provide the required
information and submit a complete application. If an applicant fails
to furnish the documentation, the application will be deemed to be
withdrawn by the applicant.]
(b) [(c)] [Complete application.
] An application is complete when [it]: (1) it contains all of the items required pursuant to [in] §36.4 of this title (relating
to Application for Certificate of Registration); (2) it conforms to the Act, this chapter,
and the program's instructions; (3) all fees have been paid pursuant to §36.19 [
as provided by §36.21] of this title (relating to Fees); and (4) all requests for additional information have been satisfied. §36.9.Renewal of Certificate of Registration.
(a) To renew a certificate of registration, an
application for renewal and the appropriate renewal fee must be submitted
[a person must submit an Application for Renewal (MRB
4) to the department using online forms provided by the department
via the program's website and by submitting the appropriate renewal
fee as outlined in §36.21 of this title (relating to Fees)]
prior to the certificate's expiration date but not more than
45 days before the expiration date of the current certificate of registration. [(b) A person may not apply for a
renewal of registration more than 45 days before the expiration date
of the current certificate of registration.]
[(c) If a person submits a timely
MRB 4, but the department has not acted upon it before the old certificate
of registration expires, the old certificate of registration continues
in effect until the MRB 4 is approved or denied by the department.]
(b) [(d)] A [person continuing
to conduct business as a metal recycling entity whose] certificate
of registration that has been expired less than one
year may be renewed by submitting an application for renewal and the
appropriate renewal fee pursuant to §36.19 of this title (relating
to Fees) [for 90 days or less may renew the certificate
by paying $750 to the department]. [(e) A person continuing to conduct
business as a metal recycling entity whose certificate of registration
has been expired for more than 90 days but less than one year may
renew the certificate by paying $1,000 to the department.]
(c) [(f)] A certificate
of registration that has expired for one year or more may not be renewed.
An application for [A person continuing to conduct business
as a metal recycling entity whose certificate of registration has
been expired for one year or more may not renew the certificate. This
person must obtain] a new certificate of registration must
be submitted according to the procedures pursuant to [utilizing
the initial application procedure set forth in] §36.4 of
this title (relating to Application for Certificate of Registration) and by paying the appropriate fees pursuant to §36.19 of this
title.[, submitting the initial application fee, and paying
an additional administrative penalty of $1,000.]
§36.10.Denial of Application for Certificate of Registration.
(a) The department may deny an application for a certificate
of registration if: (1) the applicant attempts to obtain a certificate
of registration by means of fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment
of a material fact; (2) the applicant has sold, bartered, or offered to
sell or barter a certificate of registration; [(3) the applicant has previously
been convicted of knowingly purchasing stolen regulated material pursuant
to §1956.040(b) of the Act;] [(4) the applicant fails to disclose
the required persons involved in the regular course of the business
of a metal recycling entity on the Application for Certificate of
Registration (MRB 1) pursuant to §36.4(c) of this title (relating
to Application for Certificate of Registration); or]
(3) [(5)] the applicant is
ineligible under the requirements of §36.16 [has been
convicted of a felony or misdemeanor offense as outlined in §36.15]
of this title (relating to Disqualifying Offenses); or[.] (4) the applicant's certificate of
registration was revoked within two years prior to the date of application.
(b) Upon the denial of an application under this section,
an applicant may request a hearing before the department pursuant
to [as outlined in] §36.17 of this title (relating
to Informal Hearings). §36.11.Reprimands and Suspensions of a Certificate of Registration.
(a) The department may reprimand a person who is registered
under the Act or suspend a certificate of registration of a person
who is registered under the Act if the person: (1) fails to submit the required reports to the department
pursuant to §1956.036 of the Act [§36.14
of this title (relating to Reporting Requirements)]; (2) willfully or knowingly submits false, inaccurate,
or incomplete information to the department on the reports submitted
pursuant to §1956.036 of the Act [§36.14 of this title]; (3) fails to preserve the records required pursuant
to §1956.034 of the Act; or (4) violates the Act or this chapter. (b) For the [a] first [time]
violation of subsection (a) of this section, the person may receive
a written reprimand in the form of a letter notifying the person of
the violation and directing the person to immediately remedy the violation. (c) For a second violation of subsection (a) of this
section occurring within [the preceding] two years
of an earlier violation for which a final order has been issued [
year period], the person's certificate of registration may be
suspended for a period [of] not to exceed three months. (d) For a third violation of subsection (a) of this
of two earlier violations for which final orders have been issued [
suspended for a period [of] not to exceed six months. (e) Upon receipt of a notice of reprimand or [the
] suspension [of a certificate of registration]
under this section, a person may request a hearing before the department pursuant to [as outlined in] §36.17 of this
title (relating to Informal Hearings). The failure to timely
appeal the proposed action will result in the issuance of a final order.
§36.12.Revocation of a Certificate of Registration.
(a) The department may revoke a certificate of registration
of a person who is registered under the Act if the person: (1) commits multiple violations of the same type pursuantto [as outlined in] §36.11(a) of this title
(relating to Reprimands and Suspensions of a Certificate of Registration); (2) obtains a certificate of registration by means
of fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment of a material fact; (3) sells, barters, or offers to sell or barter a certificate
of registration; [(4) is convicted of knowingly purchasing
stolen regulated material pursuant to §1956.040(b) of the Act; or]
(4) [(5)] is convicted of a disqualifying
felony or misdemeanor offense pursuant to §36.16 [
as outlined in §36.15] of this title (relating to Disqualifying
Offenses); or[.] (5) submits to the department a payment
that is dishonored, reversed, or otherwise insufficient or invalid.
(b) Upon receipt of notice of revocation under this
section, a person may request a hearing before the department pursuant
to Informal Hearings). §36.13.Recertification after Revocation.
(b) of this section, a [A] person whose certificate
of registration has been revoked may not be recertified earlier
than two [reapply prior to the passage of at least five]
years from the date of revocation. [The previously revoked applicant
must follow the procedures set forth in §36.4 of this title (relating
to Application for Certificate of Registration) for new applications.] (b) A person whose certificate of
registration has been revoked for a dishonored or reversed payment,
as provided under §36.12(a)(5) of this title (relating to Revocation
of a Certificate of Registration), may reapply at any time. Approval
of the application is contingent upon receipt of payment of the full
amount due, including any additional processing fees resulting from
the prior dishonored or reversed payment. (c) A person whose certificate of
registration has been revoked must follow the procedures pursuant
to §36.4 of this title (relating to Application for Certificate
of Registration) for new applications.
§36.14.Reporting Requirements.
[(a)] Not later than the second working
day [seventh day] after the date of purchase or other
acquisition of regulated material for which a record is required pursuant to [under] §1956.033 of the Act, the [a metal recycling
] entity shall collect and submit to the department an electronic transaction report using the department's online reporting
system. The report must contain the statutorily required documentation.
In addition, the address of the individual from whom the regulated
material is purchased must be a physical address. This address may
not be a post office box. [a Report of Purchase for Metal
Recycling Entity (MRB 5), containing:] [(1) the place and date of the purchase;] [(2) the name and physical address,
the address may not be a post office box, of each individual from
whom the regulated material is purchased or obtained;] [(3) the identifying number of the
seller's personal identification document;] [(4) a written description made in
accordance with the custom of the trade of the type and quantity of
the purchased regulated material; and] [(5) written documentation that the
person is the legal owner of or is lawfully entitled to sell the regulated
material.] [(b) A completed MRB 5 shall be sent
to the department by facsimile, electronic mail, or electronic upload
via the program's website.] [(c) If a metal recycling entity purchases
bronze material that is a cemetery vase, receptacle, memorial, or
statuary or a pipe that can reasonably be identified as aluminum irrigation
pipe, the entity shall notify the department of the purchase by the
close of the next business day via facsimile, electronic mail, or
by calling the department at the number listed on the program's website
and shall file an MRB 5 with the department within five business days.]
§36.15.Exemption from Electronic Reporting.
(a) An entity unable to comply with the electronic
reporting requirements may request an exemption from the requirement.
The request must be in the form of an affidavit stating the entity
does not have an available and reliable means of submitting the transaction
report electronically. In addition, the request must clearly describe
the entity's technological inadequacies, explain why those inadequacies
cannot be remedied, and include documentation establishing the financial
hardship associated with compliance. (b) If an exemption is granted, the entity must file
reportable transactions with the department on an approved form. The
exemption will remain in effect for no longer than twelve months,
beginning the first day of the month following the month the exemption
was granted. A new exemption must be requested annually in writing. (c) The department may rescind an exemption if the
reasons underlying the exemption are found to no longer exist.
§36.16.Disqualifying Offenses.
(a) Pursuant to Texas Occupations Code, §53.021(a)(1),
the department may revoke a certificate of registration or deny an
application for a certificate of registration if the applicant, registrant
and/or business owner thereof has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor
that directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of a metal
recycling entity. (b) The department has determined the following types
of offenses directly relate to the duties and responsibilities of
metal recycling entities. A conviction for an offense within one or
more of the following categories may result in the denial of an application
(initial or renewal) for a certificate of registration or the revocation
of a certificate of registration. The Texas Penal Code references
provided in this section are for illustrative purposes and are not
intended to exclude similar offenses in other state or federal codes.
The types of offenses directly related to the duties and responsibilities
of metal recycling entities include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Arson, Criminal Mischief, and other Property Damage
or Destruction (Texas Penal Code, Chapter 28); (2) Burglary and Criminal Trespass (Texas Penal Code, Chapter 30); (3) Theft (Texas Penal Code, Chapter 31); (4) Fraud (Texas Penal Code, Chapter 32); (5) Bribery and Corrupt Influence (Texas Penal Code, Chapter 36); (6) Perjury and Other Falsification (Texas Penal Code, Chapter 37); and (7) Any violation of Texas Occupations Code, §1956.038
or §1956.040. (c) A felony conviction for one of the offenses listed
in subsection (b) of this section, a sexually violent offense as defined
by Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 62.001, or an offense
listed in Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 42.12, §3(g),
is disqualifying for ten years from the date of the conviction, unless
a full pardon has been granted. (d) A misdemeanor conviction for one of the offenses
listed in subsection (b) of this section or a substantially similar
offense is disqualifying for five years from the date of conviction,
unless a full pardon has been granted under the authority of a state
or federal official and not only by statutory effect. (e) For the purposes of this chapter, all references
to conviction are to those for which the judgment has become final. (f) A certificate of registration may be revoked for
the imprisonment of the registrant following a felony conviction,
felony community supervision revocation, revocation of parole, or
revocation of mandatory supervision for an offense that does not relate
to the occupation of metal recycling and is disqualifying for five
years from the date of the conviction. (g) The department may consider the factors specified
in Texas Occupations Code, §53.022 and §53.023 in determining
whether to grant, deny, or revoke any certificate of registration.
§36.17.Informal Hearings.
(a) A person who receives notice of the department's
intention to deny an [whose
] application for a certification
of registration to suspend or revoke a [is denied,
whose] certificate of registration to be [is
suspended or revoked, or who is] reprimanded, or to be
prohibited from paying cash for a purchase of regulated material pursuant
to §1956.036(e) of the Act, may appeal the decision by requesting
an informal hearing. [is entitled to a hearing before the
department, governed by Chapter 29 of this title (relating to Practice
and Procedure) and Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001, if the person
submits to the department a written request for the hearing in compliance
with subsection (b) of this section.]
(b) The [A written] request for [a
] hearing must be submitted by mail, facsimile, or electronic
mail [e-mail], to the department in the manner
provided on the department's metals recycling program website within
20 calendar days after receipt of notice of denial, suspension, revocation,
or reprimand. If a written request for a hearing is not submitted [made
] within 20 calendar days of the date notice was received,
the [person has waived their] right to a hearing under
this section or §36.18 of this title (relating to Hearings
Before the State Office of Administrative Hearings) is waived. (c) An informal hearing will be scheduled and conducted
by the department's [manager of the program or the
manager's] designee [in the manner prescribed by the department
on the program's website]. (d) Following [After the conclusion of
] the informal hearing, the hearing officer will issue a written
statement of findings to the person at the [person's
] address on file. The result may be appealed to the State Office of Administrative
Hearings as provided in §36.18 of this title.
[(e) Within 20 calendar days of the
date the statement of findings was received, the person may request
an administrative hearing before the State Office of Administrative
Hearings (SOAH).]
§36.18.Hearings Before the State Office of Administrative Hearings.
The determination of the informal hearing officer may
be appealed by requesting an administrative hearing before the State
Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) within 20 calendar days of
receipt of the statement of findings. The request must be submitted
in writing by mail, facsimile, or electronic mail, to the department
in the manner provided on the metals recycling program's website.
[(a) A request for a hearing before
the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) must be submitted
in writing (by mail, facsimile, or e-mail) within 20 calendar days
of the receipt of the statement of findings sent to the person's address
on file.]
[(b) Procedures for a hearing before
SOAH shall follow the process set forth in Texas Government Code,
Chapter 2001.]
§36.19.Fees.
(a) The department has prescribed the following non-refundable
fees for purposes of administering the Act: (1) Initial Application. A $500 fee is assessed for
each application for a new certificate of registration. Applicants
conducting business at more than one location must apply for a new
certificate of registration and submit a $500 fee for each location. (2) Statutory Agent Disclosure. A $10 fee is assessed
each time statutory agent disclosure information is filed, without
an initial application or application for renewal. (3) Change in Ownership. A $10 fee is assessed each
time change of ownership information is filed, without an initial
application or application for renewal. (4) Renewal Certificate of Registration. A $500 fee
is assessed for each location renewing a certificate of registration
in accordance with §36.9 of this title (relating to Renewal of
Certificate of Registration). A certificate of registration which
has been expired for 90 days or less may be renewed by submitting
a renewal application using the department's online application and
by paying $750. A certificate of registration which has been expired
for more than 90 days but less than one year may be renewed by submitting
by paying $1,000. (5) Add or Change Location. A $500 fee is assessed
each time a metal recycling entity adds or changes a fixed location. (b) Payment of fees shall be in the manner prescribed
by the department. If payment is dishonored or reversed prior to issuance
of the certificate, the application will be rejected as incomplete.
If the certificate of registration has been issued prior to the payment
being dishonored or reversed, revocation proceedings will be initiated
pursuant to §36.12 of this title (relating to Revocation of Certificate
of Registration). The department may dismiss a pending revocation
proceeding upon receipt of payment of the full amount due, including
any additional processing fees.
§36.20.Documentation on Fire-Salvaged Insulated Communications Wire.
Pursuant to §1956.032(a)(5) and (h) of the Act, a person
attempting to sell insulated communications wire that has been burned
wholly or partly to remove the insulation must display to the purchasing
metal recycling entity documentation of the seller's ownership of
the property at which the fire occurred or an affidavit from the owner
reflecting the owner's consent for the material to be removed and sold.
§36.21.Military Exemption from Penalty for Failure to Renew in Timely Manner.
A person who holds a certificate of registration issued under
the Act is exempt from any increased fee or other penalty imposed
by the department for failing to renew the certificate of registration
in a timely manner, if the person establishes to the satisfaction
of the department the person failed to renew the certificate of registration
in a timely manner because the person was on active duty in the United
States armed forces serving outside this state.
§36.22.Extension of Certain Deadlines for Active Military Personnel.
the Act, is a member of the state military forces or a reserve component
of the armed forces of the United States, and is ordered to active
duty by proper authority is entitled to an additional amount of time,
equal to the total number of years or parts of years that the person
serves on active duty, to complete any requirement related to the
renewal of the person's certificate of registration.
§36.23.Alternative License Procedure for Military Spouse.
An applicant who is the spouse of a person serving on active
duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States may apply
for a certificate of registration under this section if the applicant: (1) establishes to the satisfaction of the department
that the applicant holds a current certificate of registration or
the equivalent issued by another state with requirements substantially
equivalent to the Act's requirements for the certificate of registration; or (2) within the five years preceding the application
date held the certificate of registration in this state that expired
while the applicant lived in another state for at least six months.
§36.24.Adding or Changing Locations.
To conduct business at a new or additional location a registrant
must apply for a certificate of registration for each location, pay
all fees required pursuant to §36.19 of this title (relating
to Fees), and obtain a certificate of registration for each location.
TRD-201301592
37 TAC §§36.15, 36.16, 36.19 - 36.21
department) proposes the repeal of §§36.15, 36.16 and 36.19
- 36.21, concerning Metals Registration. Specifically, §36.16 is repealed as it is duplicative of statutory
authority and therefore unnecessary. Section 36.19 is repealed because
dealers of crafted precious metals are no longer regulated by the
department pursuant to 82nd Legislative Session, 2011, Senate Bill
694. The proposed repeal of §36.20 is necessary to eliminate
paper forms. Section 36.15 and §36.21 are repealed to reorganize
existing language and improve the clarity of Chapter 36. Denise Hudson, Assistant Director, Finance, has determined that
benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the repeals will be a
reduction in metal theft and related crimes and improved efficiency
these repeals. Comments on this proposal may be submitted to Steve Moninger, Office
days from the date of publication of this proposal. This repeal is proposed pursuant to Texas Government
work, and Texas Occupations Code, §1956.013, which allows the
commission to adopt rules establishing minimum requirements for registration
and adopt required forms. Texas Government Code, §411.004(3), and Texas Occupations
Code, §1956.013, are affected by this proposal. §36.15.Disqualifying Offenses. §36.16.Additional and Accelerated Enforcement Actions. §36.19.Temporary Location Registration of Dealers of Crafted Precious Metal. §36.20.Forms. §36.21.Fees.
TRD-201301591