Source: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/June232017/Proposed%20Rules/22.EXAMINING%20BOARDS.html
Timestamp: 2018-01-21 02:59:20
Document Index: 722847771

Matched Legal Cases: ['§271', '§271', '§351', '§351', '§351', '§351', '§271', '§351', '§273', '§351', '§351', '§351', '§351', '§280', '§461', '§461', '§2006', '§461', '§461', '§461', '§461', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§2006', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§55', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§501', '§501', '§611', '§501', '§501', '§107', '§107', '§5', '§465', '§465', '§463', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§501', '§501', '§501', '§501', '§501', '§501', '§461', '§501', '§461', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§2006', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§463', '§1232', '§1400', '§12101', '§469', '§469', '§469', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§465', '§469', '§465', '§469', '§469', '§469', '§469', '§89', '§469', '§469']

22 TAC §271.2
The Texas Optometry Board proposes amendments to §271.2 to implement amendments to Texas Optometry Act §351.254(a) and §351.2526, and to comply with federal law.
Mr. Kloeris also has determined that for each of the first five years the amendments are in effect, the public benefit anticipated is that qualified applicants will no longer need to comply with outdated application procedures. In addition, the public will have assurances that out-of-state applicants are authorized to practice in their state of license.
The executive director estimates that there will be no economic costs imposed on those persons required to comply with the amendments. It is estimated that applicants will be required to submit $4.00 to the federal databank to obtain the out-of-state discipline report required by subsection (d). This amount will be offset because amendment of the Optometry Act removes the requirement that the application be notarized.
The agency licenses approximately 4,000 optometrists and therapeutic optometrists. A significant majority of licensees own or work in one or more of the 1,000 to 3,000 optometric practices which meet the definition of a small business. Some of these practices meet the definition of a micro business. The agency does not license these practices.
The amendment is proposed under the Texas Optometry Act, Texas Occupations Code, §351.151, and Senate Bill 314, 85th Legislature, Regular Session. No other sections are affected by the amendments.
The Texas Optometry Board interprets §351.151 as authorizing the adoption of procedural and substantive rules for the regulation of the optometric profession. The agency interprets Senate Bill 314, 85th Legislature, Regular Session as amending the Optometry Act to remove certain application requirements and require accessing information in a national databank.
§271.2.Applications.
(a) The applicant shall make application furnishing to the executive director, on forms to be furnished by the board, satisfactory [sworn] evidence that the applicant has attained the age of 21 years, [is of good moral character,] and has a preliminary education equivalent to permit matriculation in the University of Texas, and that the applicant has attended and graduated from a reputable university or college of optometry which meets with the requirements of the board, or in the alternative, submit a written statement from the dean of a reputable college of optometry that the applicant is enrolled in good standing in the college and is in the final semester before graduation, and such other information as the board may deem necessary for the enforcement of the Act.
(b) [Such application shall contain references as to good moral character from at least two licensed optometrists in good standing in the state of licensure and who are actively engaged in the practice of optometry. In the event this is not possible, affidavits from two persons not related to the applicant or to each other, who have known the applicant for at least five years, attesting to the good moral character of the applicant, will be acceptable.] The applicant shall report all felony and misdemeanor criminal convictions, including deferred adjudication or court ordered community or mandatory supervision, with or without an adjudication of guilt or revocation of parole, probation or court ordered supervision on the application. Failure of an applicant to report every criminal conviction is deceit, dishonesty and misrepresentation in seeking admission to practice and authorizes the board to take disciplinary action under §351.501 of the Act. An applicant is not required to report a Class C Misdemeanor traffic violation. The applicant shall furnish any document relating to the criminal conviction as requested by the Board. The applicant shall also provide a complete criminal history by submitting fingerprints to the authority authorized by the Department of Public Safety to take the fingerprints in the form required by that authority.
(c) In such application, the applicant shall state that the applicant will abide by the laws of this state regulating the practice of optometry and that all facts, statements and answers contained in the application are true and correct. Such application shall be signed and dated.
(d) Applicants shall submit proof that the applicant is legally entitled to the issuance of a license under federal law. Applicants shall submit a report of out-of-state disciplinary action prepared by an approved national databank. [Such application shall be subscribed and sworn to by the applicant before any officer legally qualified to administer oaths.]
(e - k) No change.
TRD-201702182
The Texas Optometry Board proposes amendments to §273.8 to implement amendments to Texas Optometry Act §351.3045 and to clarify notice requirements for license renewal.
Mr. Kloeris also has determined that for each of the first five years the amendments are in effect, the public benefit anticipated is that the agency will have current criminal history for each licensee.
The executive director estimates that amendments to the Optometry Act will impose economic costs on those persons required to comply with the amendments. For those licensees required to submit fingerprint criminal history reports, a fee of $37.00 must be paid to the vendor authorized by the Department of Public Safety. This is a one time fee.
The amendment is proposed under the Texas Optometry Act, Texas Occupations Code, §351.151 and §351.303, and Senate Bill 314, 85th Legislature, Regular Session. No other sections are affected by the amendments.
The Texas Optometry Board interprets §351.151 as authorizing the adoption of procedural and substantive rules for the regulation of the optometric profession. Section 351.303 requires notice of license expiration. The agency interprets Senate Bill 314, 85th Legislature, Regular Session, as amending the Optometry Act to require all licensees to submit a fingerprint complete criminal history report.
(1) If a license is not renewed on or before January 1 of each year, it becomes expired.
(4) If a person's license has been expired for one year or longer, the person may not renew the license but may obtain a new license by taking and passing the jurisprudence exam and complying with the requirements and procedures for obtaining an initial license. If the person was not licensed as a therapeutic optometrist when the license expired, the person must also complete the requirements for therapeutic license in §§280.1 - 280.3 of this title prior to obtaining a new license.
(6) Written [The annual renewal application will be deemed to be written] notice of the impending license expiration will be mailed [forwarded] to the licensee at the licensee's [person at the person's] last known address, according to the records of the board.
TRD-201702183
22 TAC §461.9
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes new rule §461.9, Conflicts of Interest and Recusals. The proposed new rule is being offered to fulfill the requirements of recommendation 3.9 in the Sunset Advisory Commission's report.
FISCAL NOTE. Darrel D. Spinks, Executive Director of the Board, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed new rule is in effect, there will be no additional estimated cost, reduction in costs, or loss or increase in revenue to the state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. Additionally, Mr. Spinks has determined that enforcing or administering the rule, does not have foreseeable implications relating to the costs or revenues of state or local government.
PUBLIC BENEFIT. Mr. Spinks has determined for the first five-year period the proposed new rule is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be impartiality by Board members when enforcing the law.
PROBABLE ECONOMIC COSTS. Mr. Spinks has determined for the first five-year period the proposed new rule is in effect, the new rule will not carry an economic cost to small businesses or local economies.
SMALL BUSINESS AND MICRO-BUSINESS IMPACT ANALYSIS. The proposed new rule will not have an adverse effect on small or micro-businesses.
LOCAL EMPLOYMENT IMPACT STATEMENT. The proposed new rule will not affect a local economy, thus a local employment impact statement is not required.
Comments on the proposed new rule may be submitted to Brenda Skiff, Public Information Officer, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Ste. 2-450, Austin, Texas 78701, within 30 days of publication of this proposal in the Texas Register. Comments may also be submitted via fax to (512) 305-7701, or via email to Open.Records@tsbep.texas.gov.
The Board specifically invites comments from the public on the issues of whether or not the proposed new rule will have an adverse economic effect on small businesses; if the proposed rule is believed to have an adverse effect on small businesses, estimate the number of small businesses believed to be impacted by the rule, describe and estimate the economic impact of the rule on small businesses, offer alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the rule; then explain how the Board may legally and feasibly reduce that adverse effect on small businesses considering the purpose of the statute under which the proposed rule is to be adopted, finally describe how the health, safety, environmental and economic welfare of the state will be impacted by the various proposed methods. See §2006.002(c) and (c-1) of the Texas Government Code.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY. The new rule is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.
§461.9.Conflicts of Interest and Recusals.
TRD-201702195
22 TAC §461.14
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to §461.14, Conflict Between Other Laws and Board Rules. The proposed amendment is necessary to clarify the hierarchy of controlling legal doctrine in the event of a conflict with an agency rule.
PROBABLE ECONOMIC COSTS. Mr. Spinks has determined for the first five-year period the proposed amendment is in effect, the amended rule will not carry an economic cost to small businesses or local economies.
§461.14.Conflict Between Other [between] Laws and Board Rules.
In the event of a conflict between a Board rule and the state or federal constitution; a state or federal statute; or a rule, guideline, or requirement promulgated by a federal office or agency, the state or federal law, guideline, or requirement shall control. [ In the event of conflict among state or federal statutes and Board rules, state or federal statute(s) control.]
TRD-201702196
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §463.1, Types of Licensure. The proposed amendment is necessary to ensure conformity in the Board's rules, as well as the proposed change to allow independent practice by licensed psychological associates.
§463.1Types of Licensure.
TRD-201702197
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes the repeal of rule §463.8, Licensed Psychological Associate. The proposed repeal will correspond with the proposal of the new rule.
FISCAL NOTE. Darrel D. Spinks, Executive Director of the Board, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed repeal is in effect, there will be no additional estimated cost, reduction in costs, or loss or increase in revenue to the state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering the rule. Additionally, Mr. Spinks has determined that enforcing or administering the rule, does not have foreseeable implications relating to the costs or revenues of state or local government.
PUBLIC BENEFIT. Mr. Spinks has determined for the first five-year period the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be to help the Board protect the public.
PROBABLE ECONOMIC COSTS. Mr. Spinks has determined for the first five-year period the proposed repeal is in effect, the rule will not carry an economic cost to small businesses or local economies.
SMALL BUSINESS AND MICRO-BUSINESS IMPACT ANALYSIS. The proposed repeal will not have an adverse effect on small or micro-businesses, but the agency cannot estimate the number of businesses impacted or the economic impact for the same reasons it cannot estimate the probable economic costs associated with the repeal. Furthermore, there are no reasonable alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the proposed repeal that would not run afoul of the Sherman and Clayton Acts.
LOCAL EMPLOYMENT IMPACT STATEMENT. The proposed repeal will not affect a local economy, thus a local employment impact statement is not required.
Comments on the proposed repeal may be submitted to Brenda Skiff, Public Information Officer, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Ste. 2-450, Austin, Texas 78701, within 30 days of publication of this proposal in the Texas Register. Comments may also be submitted via fax to (512) 305-7701, or via email to Open.Records@tsbep.texas.gov.
The Board specifically invites comments from the public on the issues of whether or not the proposed repeal will have an adverse economic effect on small businesses; if the proposed rule is believed to have an adverse effect on small businesses, estimate the number of small businesses believed to be impacted by the rule, describe and estimate the economic impact of the rule on small businesses, offer alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the rule; then explain how the Board may legally and feasibly reduce that adverse effect on small businesses considering the purpose of the statute under which the proposed rule is to be adopted, finally describe how the health, safety, environmental and economic welfare of the state will be impacted by the various proposed methods. See §2006.002(c) and (c-1) of the Texas Government Code.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY. The repeal is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules, not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.
TRD-201702198
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologist proposes new rule §463.8, Licensed Psychological Associate. The proposed new rule is necessary to give full effect to the Sunset Advisory Commission's management action requiring the agency to conduct a rule review to identify all rules susceptible to legal challenge under the Sherman and Clayton Acts, and then either modify or repeal those rules. The proposed new rule is also directly responsive to stakeholder requests for changes allowing for independent practice by psychological associates, as well as requests from legislators who have expressed more than a passing interest in the same issue.
PUBLIC BENEFIT. Mr. Spinks, has determined for the first five-year period the proposed new rule is in effect, there will be a benefit to consumers due to greater competition between licensed mental health providers. Additionally, Mr. Spinks reasonably anticipates the proposed new rule to result in an increase in the number of mental health providers licensed by this agency, as well as an increase in the number of providers servicing mental health professional shortage areas throughout the state.
PROBABLE ECONOMIC COSTS. Mr. Spinks, has determined for the first five-year period the proposed new rule is in effect, the rule will carry a probable economic cost to some individuals required to comply with the rule. More specifically, once a psychological associate qualifies for independent practice under the rule, that individual would no longer be required to pay for supervision or split his or her revenue with a supervisor. Thus, psychologists who charge for their supervision services could see a reduction in their incomes. However, this reduction may be offset, either in whole or in part, if a psychologist provides other activities or services during the time previously utilized for supervision. Because of the lack of information available as to the number of psychologists providing supervision, as well as the fees charged, the agency is unable to provide a probable cost estimate at this time. To do so would require agency staff to engage in abstract factual determinations which are not appropriate for this process.
SMALL BUSINESS AND MICRO-BUSINESS IMPACT ANALYSIS. The proposed new rule could have an adverse effect on small or micro-businesses, but the agency cannot estimate the number of businesses impacted or the economic impact for the same reasons it cannot estimate the probable economic costs associated with the new rule. Furthermore, there are no reasonable alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the proposed new rule that would not run afoul of the Sherman and Clayton Acts.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY. The new rule is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle I, Chapter 501, which provides the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with the authority to make all rules not inconsistent with the Constitution and Laws of this State, which are reasonably necessary for the proper performance of its duties and regulations of proceedings before it.
(3) A licensed psychological associate meeting the requirements of subsection (c)(2) shall be approved for independent practice, but remains subject to all board rules, including Board rule 465.9 relating to competency.
(d) Notwithstanding subsection (c)(3), an application for independent practice may be denied if a gap of more than two years exists between the completion of the supervised experience required for independent practice and the date of application for independent practice. The rules governing the waiver of gaps related to supervised experience found in Board rule 463.11 shall govern any request for a waiver under this rule.
(f) A licensed psychological associate authorized to practice independently under this rule must inform all patients and clients as part of the informed consent process, whether the licensee holds a masters, specialist or doctoral degree, and provide the patient with a current copy of any informational pamphlet or brochure published by the Board describing the differences between the levels of training and education received in maters, specialist, and doctoral degree programs. In lieu of providing each patient or client with a copy of the required pamphlet or brochure, licensees may publish in a conspicuous manner, the pamphlet or brochure on their website or provide a link to the pamphlet or brochure on the Board's website.
TRD-201702199
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologist proposes amendment to rule §463.14, Written Examinations. The proposed amendment is necessary to ensure conformity in the Board's rules and provide reasonable assurance of competency from licensed psychological associates engaged in independent practice.
§463.14.Written Examinations.
(1) the applicant's score satisfies [satisfied ] the Board's current minimum acceptable score for licensure; and
(e) [(f)] Cutoff Scores for the EPPP. The minimum acceptable score for the EPPP is seventy percent (70%) of questions scored [for psychologist licensure applicants and fifty-five percent (55%) of questions scored for psychological associate licensure applicants] on the pencil and paper version of the test. For computer-delivered EPPP examinations, the cutoff scaled score is 500. [are 500 and 350 respectively. Applicants for licensure as a psychological associate must receive a minimum score of eighty percent (80%) of questions scored on the Board's Jurisprudence Examination. All other applications for licensure must receive a minimum score of ninety percent (90%) of questions scored on the Board's Jurisprudence Examination. The exam score of applicants for licensure who have already taken the EPPP must satisfy the requirements of the Board as of the date of application to the Board.]
TRD-201702200
22 TAC §463.28
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes the repeal of rule §463.28, Emergency Limited Temporary Licensure. The proposed repeal is due to lack of statutory basis.
FISCAL NOTE. Darrel D. Spinks, Executive Director of the Board, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed repeal is in effect, there will be no additional estimated cost, reduction in costs, or loss or increase in revenue to the state or local governments as a result of enforcing or administering the rule as amended. Additionally, Mr. Spinks has determined that enforcing or administering the rule as repealed, does not have foreseeable implications relating to the costs or revenues of state or local government.
PROBABLE ECONOMIC COSTS. Mr. Spinks has determined for the first five-year period the proposed repeal is in effect, the amended rule will not carry a economic cost to small businesses or local economies.
SMALL BUSINESS AND MICRO-BUSINESS IMPACT ANALYSIS. The proposed repeal will not have an adverse effect on small or micro-businesses.
Comments on the proposed repeal may be submitted to Brenda Skiff, Public Information Officer, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Ste. 2-450, Austin, TX 78701, within 30 days of publication of this proposal in the Texas Register. Comments may also be submitted via fax to (512) 305-7701, or via email to Open.Records@tsbep.texas.gov.
The Board specifically invites comments from the public on the issues of whether or not the proposed repeal will have an adverse economic effect on small businesses; if the proposed rule is believed to have an adverse effect on small businesses, estimate the number of small businesses believed to be impacted by the rule, describe and estimate the economic impact of the rule on small businesses, offer alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the rule; then explain how the Board may legally and feasibly reduce that adverse effect on small businesses considering the purpose of the statute under which the proposed rule is to be adopted, finally describe how the health, safety, environmental and economic welfare of the state will be impacted by the various proposed methods. See Section 2006.002(c) and (c-1) of the Texas Government Code.
§463.28.Emergency Limited Temporary Licensure.
TRD-201702201
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §463.30, Licensing for Military Service Members, Veterans and Spouses. The proposed amendment is offered to bring the rule into alignment with Management Recommendation No. 3.8 on page 24 of the Sunset Commission Staff Report. The proposed amendment is also necessary to ensure compliance with §55.007, Occupations Code, by eliminating reference letters from the list of licensing criteria which may be satisfied by military service, training, or education.
(A) Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. An applicant who meets the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: [three reference letters,] submission of an official transcript, and evidence of the required coursework or National Association of School Psychologists certification, and passage of the National School Psychology Examination. All other requirements for licensure are still required.
(B) Licensed Psychological Associate. An applicant who meets the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: [three reference letters,] submission of an official transcript, 450 internship hours, and passage of the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) at the Texas cut-off. All other requirements for licensure are still required.
(C) Provisionally Licensed Psychologist. An applicant who meets the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: [three reference letters,] submission of an official transcript, and passage of the EPPP at the Texas cut-off. All other requirements for licensure are still required.
(A) Licensed Specialist in School Psychology [(the license required to provide psychological services in the public schools)].
(B) Licensed Psychological Associate [(the graduate level license that requires supervision by a licensed psychologist)].
(i) Graduate degree that is primarily psychological in nature and consisting of [the degree is] at least 42 semester credit hours in total with at least 27 semester credit hours in psychology courses;
(ii) Passage of the EPPP at the Texas cut-off score; and [master's level at 55%; and]
(iii) A minimum of 6 semester credit hours [450 hours] of practicum, internship, or experience in psychology, under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
(C) Provisionally Licensed Psychologist [(the doctoral level license that must be supervised by a licensed psychologist)].
(ii) Passage of the EPPP at the Texas cut-off score [doctoral level at 70%].
(D) Licensed Psychologist [(the doctoral license that is required to practice independently)].
(ii) Passage of the EPPP at the Texas cut-off score [doctoral level of 70%];
(iii) Two years or a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised experience under [by] a licensed psychologist; and
(iv) Passage of an oral examination.
(A) Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. A military service member or military veteran who was engaged in or who has been engaged in the delivery of psychological services within the military, for at least one year, is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: a practicum and 600 internship hours. [three reference letters.] All other requirements for licensure are still required.
(B) Licensed Psychological Associate. A military service member or military veteran who was engaged in or who has been engaged in the delivery of psychological services within the military, for at least one year, is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: 1,750 [three reference letters, 450] hours of supervised experience. All other requirements for licensure are still required.
[(C) Provisionally Licensed Psychologist. A military service member or military veteran who was engaged in or who has been engaged in the delivery of psychological services within the military, for at least one year, is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: three reference letters. All other requirements for licensure are still required.]
(C) [(D)] Licensed Psychologist. A military service member or military veteran who was engaged in or who has been engaged in the delivery of psychological services within the military, for at least one year following conferral of a doctoral degree, is considered to have met the following requirements for this type of license: one year or a minimum of 1,750 hours of [post-doctoral] supervised experience. All other requirements for licensure are still required.
[(2) An applicant with an honorable discharge from the United States military either during the application process or within the three year period preceding the date the application is received by the Board, is considered to have met the requirement for one of the three reference letters.]
(2) [(3)] A military service member or military veteran may not receive credit toward licensing requirements due to military service, training, or education if they hold a license issued by another jurisdiction that has been restricted, or they have an unacceptable criminal history.
TRD-201702202
22 TAC §465.1
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.1, Definitions. The proposed amendment is necessary to clarify the meaning if specific terms used in this rule.
Comments on the proposed amendment may be submitted to Brenda Skiff, Public Information Officer, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, 333 Guadalupe, Ste. 2-450, Austin, TX 78701, within 30 days of publication of this proposal in the Texas Register. Comments may also be submitted via fax to (512) 305-7701, or via email to Open.Records@tsbep.texas.gov.
§465.1.Definitions.
(1) "Client" means a party other than a patient seeking or obtaining psychological services, as defined in §501.003 of the Occupations Code, for a third-party with the goal of assisting or caring for that third-party or answering a referral question through the use of forensic psychological services. [has the same meaning as "patient."]
(2) "Dual Relationship" means a situation where a licensee and another individual have both a professional relationship and a non-professional relationship. Dual relationships include, but are not limited to, personal friendships, business or financial interactions, mutual club or social group activities, family or marital ties, or sexual relationships.
(3) "Forensic psychological services" are services involving courts, legal claims, or the legal system. The provision of forensic psychological services includes any and all preliminary and exploratory services, testing, assessments, evaluations, interviews, examinations, depositions, oral or written reports, live or recorded testimony, or any psychological service provided by a licensee concerning a current or potential legal case at the request of a party or potential party, an attorney for a party, or a court, or any other individual or entity, regardless of whether the licensee ultimately provides a report or testimony that is utilized in a legal proceeding. However, forensic psychological services do not include evaluations, proceedings, or hearings under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA).
(4) "Forensic evaluation" is an evaluation conducted, not for the purpose of providing mental health treatment, but rather at the request of a court, a federal, state, or local governmental entity, an attorney, or an administrative body including federal and private disability benefits providers to assist in addressing a forensic referral question.
(5) "Informed Consent" means the written documented consent of the patient, client and other recipients of psychological services only after the patient, client or other recipient has been made aware of the purpose and nature of the services to be provided, including but not limited to: the specific goals of the services; the procedures to be utilized to deliver the services; possible side effects of the services, if applicable; alternate choices to the services, if applicable; the possible duration of the services; the confidentiality of and relevant limits thereto; all financial policies, including the cost and methods of payment; and any provisions for cancellation of and payments for missed appointments; and right of access of the patient, client or other recipient to the records of the services.
(6) "Licensee" means a licensed psychologist, provisionally licensed psychologist, licensed psychological associate, licensed specialist in school psychology, applicants to the Board, and any other individual whom the Board has the authority to discipline under these Rules.
(7) "Multiple Relationship" means any relationship between a licensee and another individual involving a professional relationship and a non-professional relationship.
(8) "Patient" means a person who receives psychological services, as defined in §501.003 of the Occupations Code, regardless of whether the patient or a third-party pays for the services. The term "patient" shall include a client if the client is a person listed in §611.004(a)(4) or (5) of the Health and Safety Code who is acting on a patient’s behalf. A person who is the subject of a forensic evaluation is not considered to be a patient under these rules. ["Patient" means a person who consults or is interviewed by a licensee for a diagnosis, evaluation, or treatment of any mental or emotional condition or disorder of that person regardless of whether the patient or some other individual or entity paid for the consultation or interview. However, a person who is the subject of a forensic evaluation is not considered to be a patient under these rules]
(9) "Professional relationship" is any relationship between a licensee and another individual, group or organization in which the licensee delivers psychological services to the individual, group, or organization.
(10) "Professional standards" are determined by the Board through its rules, regulations, policies and any other sources adopted by the Board.
(11) "Provision of psychological services" means any use by a licensee of his or her education or training in psychology in the context of a professional relationship. Psychological services include, but are not limited to, therapy, diagnosis, testing, assessments, evaluation, treatment, counseling, supervision, consultation, providing forensic opinions, rendering a professional opinion, performing research, or teaching to an individual, group, or organization.
(12) "Recognized member of the clergy," as used in §501.004(a)(4) of the Act, means a member in good standing of and accountable to a denomination, church, sect or religious organization legally recognized under the Internal Revenue Code, §501(c)(3).
(13) "Records" are any information, regardless of the format in which it is maintained, that can be used to document the delivery, progress or results of any psychological services including, but not limited to, data identifying a recipient of services, dates of services, types of services, informed consents, fees and fee schedules, assessments, treatment plans, consultations, session notes, test results, reports, release forms obtained from a client or patient or any other individual or entity, and records concerning a patient or client obtained by the licensee from other sources.
(14) "Report" includes any written or oral assessment, recommendation, psychological diagnostic or evaluative statement containing the professional judgment or opinion of a licensee.
(15) "Test materials" refers to test booklets, forms, manuals, instruments, protocols, software, as well as test questions, and stimuli protected by federal copyright law and used in psychological testing to generate test results and test reports. ["Test data" refers to testing materials, test booklets, test forms, test protocols and answer sheets used in psychological testing to generate test results and test reports.]
(16) "Test data" refers to a patient’s specific answers to test materials, whether spoken or written, generated in drawings, or recorded by computers or other lab devices.
(17) [(16)] "Supervision" refers to direct, systematic professional oversight of individuals who provide psychological services under the authority of a supervising licensee, whereby the supervisor has the responsibility and ability to monitor and control the psychological services provided to ensure the patient's or client's best interests are met and that the public is protected. In the context of psychological training and education, "supervision" also refers to the formal provision of systematic education and training for purposes of licensure or competency that serves to assist individuals with gaining experience and developing the skills necessary for licensure or competent practice in a particular practice area. However, the term "supervision" does not apply to the supervision of purely administrative or employment matters.
(18) [(17)] "Child custody evaluation" has the same meaning as assigned by Tex. Fam. Code Ann. §107.101.
(19) [(18)] "Adoption evaluation" has the same meaning as assigned by Tex. Fam. Code Ann. §107.151.
(20) "Private school" has the same meaning as assigned by §5.001 of the Texas Education Code, but does not include a parent or legal guardian who chooses to homeschool a child.
(21) "Public school" means any state agency, regional education service center, diploma program, school district, or charter school established or authorized under Title 2 of the Texas Education Code and supported in whole or in part by state tax funds.
TRD-201702203
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.2, Supervision. The proposed amendment is necessary to ensure conformity in the Board’s rules, as well as the proposed change to allow independent practice by licensed psychological associates.
§465.2.Supervision.
(5) Supervisors must ensure that each individual completing any portion of the internship required by Board rule §463.9, is provided with a written agreement that includes a clear statement of the expectations, duties, and responsibilities of each party, including the total hours to be performed by the intern, benefits and support to be provided by the supervisor, and the process by which the intern will be supervised and evaluated.
TRD-201702204
22 TAC §465.3
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.3, Providers of Psychological Services. The proposed amendment serves to eliminate redundant language and clarify the principle that agency rules are subservient to conflicting laws and guidelines found at both the state and federal level.
§465.3.Providers of Psychological Services.
(a) Psychologists shall employ or utilize an individual to provide psychological services, in any setting not specifically exempt under §501.004(a)(1) of the Psychologists' Licensing Act (the Act), only if:
(1) The individual is licensed by this Board; or
(2) The individual is specifically exempted from licensure requirements by §501.004(a)(2) of the Act, relating to provision of services as part of a supervised course of study by students, residents or interns pursuing a course of study in a recognized training institution or facility; or,
(3) The individual is engaged in post-doctoral supervision for purposes of satisfying §501.252(b)(2) of the Act; or
(4) The individual is completing supervised experience for purposes of satisfying §501.260(b)(3) of the Act, relating to Licensed Specialist in School Psychology; or
(5) The individual is completing supervised experience for purposes of satisfying the requirements to become a licensed professional listed in §501.004(b) of the Act.
(b) Licensees who contract either individually or with a third-party contract provider to provide psychological services in settings where the Act does not apply pursuant to §501.004 of the Act ("exempt" settings) are not themselves exempt from the Act. In some cases, a licensee may have to follow state or federal guidelines or laws that conflict with Board rules. In those cases, the conflicting guidelines or laws supercede Board rules. [Board rule §461.14 of this title (relating to Conflict between Laws and Board Rules) applies.]
[(c) Licensees who contract with a third party who contracts to provide psychological services in settings where the Act does not apply pursuant to §501.004 of the Act ("exempt" settings) are not themselves exempt from the Act. In some cases, a licensee may have to follow state or federal guidelines or laws that conflict with Board rules. In those cases, Board rule §461.14 of this title applies.]
TRD-201702205
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.6, Public Statements, Advertisements, and Specialty Titles. The proposed amendment is necessary to remove restrictions on speech which represent an unreasonable risk of liability in light of the recent Serafine v. Branaman opinion.
§465.6.[Listings,] Public Statements, [and] Advertisements, [Solicitations,] and Specialty Titles.
[(a) Listings. Only licensed psychologists may be listed in telephone directories under the title of "Psychologists".]
(a) [(b)] Public Statements and Advertisements.
(1) Licensees shall not authorize, use or make any public statements or [and] advertisements that are false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent, either because of what they state, convey or suggest or because of what they omit concerning [the practice of psychology or] their own training, experience, abilities or competence; their academic degrees; their credentials; their institutional or association affiliations; or their publications or research.
(2) Licensees who learn of any false or deceptive statements about any of the matters reference in subsection(a)(1) must [their practice of psychology or their status as providers of psychological services] make reasonable efforts to correct such statements.
(b) [(c)] Solicitation of Testimonials and/or Patients.
(1) Licensees do not solicit testimonials from current [therapy] clients or patients or from other persons who are vulnerable to undue influence.
(2) Licensees do not engage, directly or through agents, in uninvited in-person solicitation of business from actual or potential [therapy] patients or clients.
(E) documentation of certification, approval, or specialist status granted by a professional, refereed board, provided that the licensee indicates the name of the board which granted the title and that the individual’s status with the specialty board is current and in good standing. Use of the term "Board Certified" or "Board Approved" or any similar words or phrases calculated to convey the same meaning shall constitute misleading or deceptive advertising, unless the licensee discloses the complete name of the specialty board that conferred the aforementioned specialty title, certification, approval or specialist status.
[(d) Specialty Titles. A psychologist may use a specialty title only when one of the following criteria have been met:]
[(1) Doctorate in the area of specialization;]
[(2) Retraining under the American Psychological Association retraining guidelines of 1977 in the area of specialization;]
[(3) Full-time supervised two-year postdoctoral fellowship in the area of specialization;]
[(4) Documentation that the title has been used for five years and documentation of academic coursework and relevant applied experience, if an individual was matriculated in a doctoral program in psychology in 1977 or before; or]
[(5) Certification or approval or specialist status has been granted by a professional, refereed board, provided that the licensee indicates the name of the board which granted the title and that the individual's status with the specialty board is current and in good standing. Use of the term "Board Certified" or "Board Approved" or any similar words or phrases calculated to convey the same meaning shall constitute misleading or deceptive advertising, unless the licensee discloses the complete name of the specialty board that conferred the aforementioned specialty title, certification, approval, or specialist status.]
TRD-201702206
22 TAC §465.11
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.11, Informed Consent/Describing Psychological Services. The proposed amendment is necessary to comply with the management action adopted by the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission requiring this agency to amend its rules to allow LSSPs to practice in private schools.
§465.11.Informed Consent/Describing Psychological Services.
(d) When a licensee agrees to provide services to a person, group or organization at the request of a third party, the licensee clarifies to all of the parties the nature of the relationship between the licensee and each party at the outset of the service and at any time during the services that the circumstances change. This clarification includes the role of the licensee with each party, the probable uses of the services and the results of the services, and all potential limits to the confidentiality between the recipient(s) of the services and the licensee.
(e) When a licensee agrees to provide services to several persons who have a relationship, such as spouses, couples, parents and children, or in group therapy, the licensee clarifies at the outset the professional relationship between the licensee and each of the individuals involved, including the probable use of the services and information obtained, confidentiality, expectations of each participant, and the access of each participant to records generated in the course of the services.
(f) At any time that a licensee knows or should know that he or she may be called on to perform potentially conflicting roles (such as marital counselor to husband and wife, and then witness for one party in a divorce proceeding), the licensee explains the potential conflict to all affected parties and adjusts or withdraws from all professional services in accordance with Board rules and applicable state and federal law. Further, licensees who encounter personal problems or conflicts as described in Board rule §465.9(i) of this title (relating to Competency) that will prevent them from performing their work-related activities in a competent and timely manner must inform their clients of the personal problem or conflict and discuss appropriate termination and/or referral to insure that the services are completed in a timely manner.
(g) When persons are legally incapable of giving informed consent, licensees obtain informed consent from any individual legally designated to provide substitute consent.
(h) When informed consent is precluded by law, the licensee describes the nature and purpose of all services, as well as the confidentiality of the services and all applicable limits thereto, that he or she intends to provide to the patient, client, or other recipient(s) of the psychological services prior to initiating the services using language that is reasonably understandable to the recipient(s).
[(i) Informed consent for school psychological services is governed by Board rule §465.38.]
TRD-201702207
22 TAC §465.16
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.16, Evaluation, Assessment, Testing, and Reports. The proposed amendment is necessary to ensure conformity in the Board’s rules and provide reasonable assurance of competency from licensed psychological associates engaged in independent practice.
§465.16.Evaluation, Assessment, Testing, and Reports.
(1) Licensees clearly describe the scope and purpose of evaluation, assessment, and testing to patients before they provide these psychological services.
(2) Licensees produce reports that clearly state and accurately reflect the scope and purpose of evaluation, assessment, and testing.
(b) Reliability and Validity.
(1) Licensees verify, by signature and date, that every evaluation, assessment, test result, report, recommendation, or psychological diagnostic or evaluative statement produced is based on information and techniques sufficient to provide appropriate substantiation for its findings.
(2) Licensees administer, score, interpret or use assessment techniques or tests only if they are familiar with the reliability, validation and related standardization or outcome studies of, and proper applications and use of, the techniques they use.
(3) Licensees who administer, score, interpret or utilize psychological assessment techniques, tests or instruments do so in a manner and for purposes for which there are professional or scientific bases.
(1) Licensees include all information that provides the basis for their findings in any report in which they make findings or diagnoses about an individual.
(2) Licensees identify limits to the certainty with which diagnoses, judgments, or predictions can be made about individuals.
(3) Licensees identify various test factors and characteristics of the person being assessed that might affect their professional judgment or reduce the accuracy of their interpretations when interpreting assessment results, including automated interpretations.
(4) Licensees include any significant reservations they have about the accuracy or limitations of their interpretations or findings in any report they produce.
(5) Licensees provide opinions of the psychological characteristics of individuals only after they have conducted an examination of the individuals adequate to support their statements or conclusions. When such an examination is not practical, licensees document the efforts they made to obtain such an examination and clarify the probable impact of their limited information to the reliability and validity of their conclusions.
(6) Licensees must meet any education, training, or licensure requirements established by a test publisher for the purchase or use of its test materials. It is presumed that a licensee meets any such requirements if a test publisher or other authorized vendor, sells test materials to a licensee. Any false or misleading representation by a licensee regarding the individual’s qualifications will negate this presumption.
(d) Test Security and Validity. Licensees conduct testing and maintain and release test protocols and data in a secure manner that does not compromise the validity of the test.
TRD-201702208
22 TAC §465.19
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes the repeal of rule §465.19, Teaching. The proposed repeal is necessary because the Board either lacks the statutory authority to regulate matters covered by this rule or the matters are already covered by existing rules elsewhere.
The Board specifically invites comments from the public on the issues of whether or not the proposed repeal will have an adverse economic effect on small businesses; if the proposed repeal is believed to have an adverse effect on small businesses, estimate the number of small businesses believed to be impacted by the repeal, describe and estimate the economic impact of the repeal on small businesses, offer alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the repeal; then explain how the Board may legally and feasibly reduce that adverse effect on small businesses considering the purpose of the statute under which the proposed repeal is to be adopted, finally describe how the health, safety, environmental and economic welfare of the state will be impacted by the various proposed methods. See §2006.002(c) and (c-1) of the Texas Government Code.
§465.19.Teaching.
TRD-201702209
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.22, Psychological Records, Test Data and Text Materials. The proposed amendment is necessary to incorporate changes made to terms defined elsewhere in the rules, as well as clarify the relationship between test data, test materials, and a patient's records.
§465.22.Psychological Records, Test Data and Test Materials [Protocols].
(5) Records[, test data and test protocols] shall be maintained and stored in a way that permits review and duplication.
(6) Licensees working in public school settings shall comply with all federal and state laws [and regulations] relative to the content, maintenance, control, access, retention and destruction of psychological and educational records, test data and test protocols.
(7) Licensees are prohibited from falsifying, altering, fabricating, or back-dating [patient] records and reports.
(b) Maintenance and Control of Records [and Test Data].
(1) Licensees shall maintain records [and test data] in a manner that protects the confidentiality of all services delivered by the licensee.
(2) Licensees are responsible for the contents of, as well as the access, retention, control, maintenance, and destruction of all records unless stated otherwise by law. [Licensees are responsible for the maintenance, confidentiality and contents of, and access to, all records and test data.]
(3) Licensees shall make all reasonable efforts to protect against the misuse of any record [or test data].
(4) Licensees shall maintain control over records [and test data] to the extent necessary to ensure compliance with all applicable [Board rules and all] state and federal laws.
(5) In situations where it becomes impossible for a licensee to maintain control over records [and test data] as required by state or federal law [applicable Board rule and state and federal law], the licensee shall make all necessary arrangements for transfer of the licensee's records to another licensee who will ensure compliance with [all applicable Board rules and] state and federal laws concerning records.
(6) The possession, access, retention, control, maintenance, and destruction of records of psychological services rendered by a licensee as an employee of or contractor for an agency or organization remain the responsibility of that agency or organization upon termination of the licensee's employment or contract unless otherwise required by state or federal law or legal agreement. [Records and test data of psychological services rendered by a licensee as an employee of an agency or organization remain the property of the employing agency upon termination of the employment of the individual unless legal ownership of such records is controlled by applicable state or federal law or legal agreement.]
(c) Access to Records [and Test Data].
(3) A licensee shall release information about a patient or client only upon written authorization from the patient or client, or as otherwise permitted or required under state or federal law. [by the patient, client or appropriate legal guardian pursuant to a proper court order or as required by applicable state or federal law.]
(4) Test materials [data] are not part of a patient's or client's record and may not be copied or distributed without the permission of the test publisher unless otherwise permitted under state and federal law. A licensee who is served with a subpoena requiring production of test materials should take reasonable steps to notify and provide the test publisher with a copy of the subpoena as promptly as possible, but may not produce test materials in response to a subpoena without the test publisher's permission or a court order. [Test data are not subject to subpoena. Test data shall be made available only:]
[(A) to another qualified mental health professional and only upon receipt of written release from the patient or client, or]
[(B) pursuant to a court order.]
(6) [(5)] Licensees cooperate in the continuity of care of patients and clients by providing appropriate information to succeeding qualified service providers as permitted by applicable Board rule and state and federal law.
(7) [(6)] Licensees who are temporarily or permanently unable to practice psychology shall implement a system that enables their records to be accessed in compliance with applicable Board rules and state and federal law.
(8) [(7)] Access to records may not be withheld due to an outstanding balance owed by a client for psychological services provided prior to the patient's request for records. However, licensees may impose a reasonable fee for review and/or reproduction of records and are not required to permit examination until such fee is paid, unless there is a medical emergency or the records are to be used in support of an application for disability benefits.
(9) [(8)] No later than 15 days after receiving a written request from a patient to examine or copy all or part of the patient's mental health records, a psychologist shall:
(d) Retention of Records [and Test Data].
(2) In the absence of applicable state and federal laws, rules and regulations, records and test data shall be maintained for a minimum of seven years after termination of services with the patient, client or subject of evaluation, or three years after a patient [client] or subject of evaluation reaches the age of majority, whichever is greater.
TRD-201702210
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §465.38, Psychological Services for Schools. The proposed amendment is necessary to comply with the management action requirement adopted by the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission requiring this agency to amend its rules to allow LSSPs to practice in private schools. The proposed amendment also serves to remove restrictions on speech which represent an unreasonable risk of liability in light of the tenuous argument for public protection supporting those restrictions. Lastly, the proposed amendment removes unreasonable restrictions on a licensee’s ability to contract for the delivery services in a public or private school.
§465.38.Psychological Services for [Public] Schools.
(a) This rule acknowledges the unique difference in the delivery of school psychological services in [the] public and private schools from psychological services in the private sector. The Board recognizes the purview of the State Board of Education and the Texas Education Agency in safeguarding the rights of [public] school children in Texas. The mandated multidisciplinary team decision making, hierarchy of supervision, regulatory provisions, and past traditions of school psychological service delivery both nationally and in Texas, among other factors, allow for rules of practice in public and private schools [the public schools] which reflect these occupational distinctions from the private practice of psychology.
(1) A Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) means a person who is trained to address psychological and behavioral problems manifested in and associated with educational systems by utilizing psychological concepts and methods in programs or actions which attempt to improve the learning, adjustment and behavior of students. Such activities include, but are not limited to, addressing special education eligibility, conducting manifestation determinations, and assisting with the development and implementation of individual educational programs, conducting behavioral assessments, and designing and implementing behavioral interventions and supports.
(2) The assessment of emotional or behavioral disturbance, solely for educational purposes, using psychological techniques and procedures is considered the practice of school psychology.
(3) The delivery of school psychological services in the public schools of this state shall be consistent with nationally recognized standards for the practice of school psychology. Licensees providing school psychological services in a private school should comply with those same nationally recognized standards where possible, but at a minimum, must comply with all applicable Board rules, including those related to informed consent, notification of the right to file a complaint, competency forensic services, and misuse of services.
(c) The specialist in school psychology license permits the licensee to provide school psychological services only in public and private schools. [Texas public schools, including charter schools.] A person utilizing this license may not provide psychological services in any context or capacity outside of a public or private school. [their employment or contract with public schools.]
(d) The correct title for an individual holding a specialist in school psychology license is Licensed Specialist in School Psychology or LSSP. [Only individuals who meet the requirements of Board rule §465.6 of this title (relating to Listings, Public Statements and Advertisements, Solicitations, and Specialty Titles) may refer to themselves as School Psychologists. No individual may use the title Licensed School Psychologist.] An LSSP who has achieved certification as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) may use this credential along with the license title of LSSP.
(e) Providers of Psychological Services Within the Public Schools.
(1) School psychological services may be provided in Texas public schools only by individuals authorized by this Board to provide such services. Individuals who may provide such school psychological services include:
(A) LSSPs;
(B) Those individuals listed in Board rule §463.9(g) of this title (relating to Licensed Specialist in School Psychologists); and
(C) Individuals seeking to fulfill the licensing requirements of Board rule §463.8 of this title (relating to Licensed Psychological Associate), Board rule §463.10 of this title (relating to Provisionally Licensed Psychologists), or Board rule §463.11 of this title (relating to Licensed Psychologist).
(2) Licensees who do not hold the specialist in school psychology license may contract for specific types of psychological services, such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, neuropsychology, and family therapy, but any such contracting may[. Such contracting must be on a short term or part-time basis, and shall] not involve the broad range of school psychological services listed in subsection (b)(1) of this rule.
(3) An LSSP who contracts with a school [district] to provide school psychological services must notify the school of any intent or plan to [may not] subcontract or assign those services to another provider prior to entering into the agreement. An LSSP subject to this provision shall be responsible for ensuring the school psychological services delivered comply with subsection (b)(3) above. [services which they have been contracted to provide.]
(f) Compliance with Applicable Education Laws. LSSPs shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws affecting the practice of school psychology, including, but not limited to:
(1) Texas Education Code;
(2) Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. §1232g;
(3) Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA), 20 U.S.C. §1400 et seq.;
(4) Texas Public Information Act ("Open Records Act"), Texas Government Code, Chapter 552;
(5) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and
(6) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 42 U.S.C. §12101 and;[.]
(7) HIPAA when practicing in a private school.
(g) Informed Consent a Public School. Informed consent for a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology must be obtained in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) and the U.S. Department of Education's rules governing parental consent when delivering school psychological services in the public schools, and is considered to meet the requirements for informed consent under Board rules. No additional informed consent, specific to any Board rules, [rules,] is necessary in this context. Licensees providing psychological services under subsection (e)(2) or in a private school however, must obtain informed consent as otherwise required by the Board rules.
TRD-201702211
22 TAC §469.1
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §469.1, Timeliness of Complaints. The proposed amendment is necessary to clarify the limitations periods applicable to various rule violations, as well as clarify the applicability of limitations to complaints brought by the agency itself.
§469.1.Timeliness of Complaints
(a) A complaint not involving a violation of Board rules §465.33 of this title (relating to Improper Sexual Conduct) or §465.22(d) of this title (relating to Psychological Records, Test Data and Test Protocols), will be considered timely if brought [is timely filed if it is received by the Board, in proper form,] within five years of the date of the termination of professional services. [and does not allege sexual misconduct or a violation of Board rule §465.22(d) of this title (relating to Psychological Records, Test Data and Test Protocols).]
(b) A complaint alleging a violation of Board rules §465.33 of this title or §465.22(d) of this title, will be considered timely if brought [sexual misconduct by a licensee is timely filed if received] within seven years after termination of services or within three years of the patient, a client or subject of evaluation reaching the age of majority, whichever is greater.
(c) A complaint arising out of disciplinary action taken against a licensee by any entity listed in Board rule §469.11(a)(4) of this title (relating to Legal Actions Reported and Reciprocal Discipline), will be considered timely if brought within five years of the date the disciplinary action is reported to the Board. [A complaint alleging a violation of Board rule §465.22(d) of this title is timely filed if received within seven years after termination of services with the client or subject of evaluation, or three years after a client or subject of evaluation reaches the age of majority, whichever is greater.]
(d) Limitations shall not begin to run for any complaint arising out of a matter required to be reported under Board rule §469.11 of this title, until the matter is reported in accordance with that rule. [Any statute of limitations applying to a complaint filed against a licensee by a health licensing board in another jurisdiction, or filed by another health licensing board in Texas, begins after that jurisdiction's or authority's investigation is complete.]
[(e) A complaint based on discipline in another jurisdiction is timely filed within five years of the date that the board receives notice of the disciplinary action.]
TRD-201702212
22 TAC §469.9
The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists proposes an amendment to rule §469.9, Complaints Alleging Violations of Court Orders or Education Law. The proposed amendment is necessary to ensure consistency in decisions between state agencies with regard to complaints involving standard of care issues brought against licensed specialist in school psychology. The Board’s intent by and through this amendment is to avoid potentially conflicting findings by this agency and Texas Education Agency, thereby placing both the public and licensees in a state of confusion about what constitutes lawful and ethical practice.
§469.9.Complaints Alleging Violations of Court Orders or Education Law.
(a) No complaint will be processed against a licensee if such complaint is predicated upon a violation of a court order unless such complaint includes certified court documents which show that the court has decided that the licensee did violate the specific court order and the court's response to such violation.
(b) Complaints Involving Standard of Care Issues in Schools:
(1) An individual wishing to file a complaint against a licensee for any matter relating to the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of or the provision of a free appropriate public education to a student, must first exhaust all administrative remedies available to that individual under §89.1150 of the Commissioner’s Rules Concerning Special Education Services, Texas Education Agency. An individual that has gone through a due process hearing with the Texas Education Agency will be considered to have exhausted all administrative remedies.
(2) For purposes of this rule, the rule of limitations found in Board rule §469.1, of this title (relating to Timeliness of Complaints), shall not begin to run until all of the administrative remedies reference in subsection (b)(1) have been exhausted.
(3) Notwithstanding subsection (b)(1), an individual employed or contracted by the same public or private school as the licensee may file a complaint covered by subsection (b)(1) regardless of whether any administrative remedies available under state or federal education law are utilized by the parent or legal guardian of a student. A complaint brought under this provision shall be subject to the rule of limitations set forth in Board rule §469.1 of this title.
(4) This rule shall not operate to preclude any individual from filing a complaint against a licensee for any matter other than those described in subsection (b)(1), nor shall it operate to limit the Board’s ability to bring a complaint for any matter within the agency’s jurisdiction.
TRD-201702213