2011 Texas Statutes
OCCUPATIONS CODE
TITLE 3 - HEALTH PROFESSIONS
SUBTITLE K - PROFESSIONS RELATED TO USE OF CERTAIN MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER 603 - PERFUSIONISTS
OCCUPATIONS CODE
TITLE 3. HEALTH PROFESSIONS
SUBTITLE K. PROFESSIONS RELATED TO USE OF CERTAIN MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER 603. PERFUSIONISTS
SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 603.001. SHORT TITLE. This chapter may be cited as the Licensed Perfusionists Act.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.002. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:
(1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of state health services.
(2) "Committee" means the Texas State Perfusionist Advisory Committee.
(3) "Department" means the Department of State Health Services.
(4) "Executive commissioner" means the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.003. PRACTICE OF PERFUSION. (a) In this section:
(1) "Extracorporeal circulation" means the diversion of a patient's blood through a heart-lung machine or a similar device that assumes the functions of the patient's heart, lungs, or both.
(2) "Perfusion protocol" means a perfusion-related policy or protocol developed or approved by a licensed health facility or a physician through collaboration with administrators, licensed perfusionists, and other health professionals.
(b) A person practices perfusion under this chapter when the person performs activities necessary to:
(1) support, treat, measure, or supplement the cardiovascular, circulatory, or respiratory system, or a combination of those activities; or
(2) ensure the safe management of physiologic functions by monitoring the parameters of the systems under the order and supervision of a licensed physician.
(c) The practice of perfusion includes:
(1) using extracorporeal circulation, cardiopulmonary support techniques, and other therapeutic and diagnostic technologies;
(2) performing counterpulsation, ventricular assistance, autotransfusion, blood conservation techniques, administration of cardioplegia, and isolated limb perfusion;
(3) using techniques involving blood management, advanced life support, and other related functions; and
(4) in performing the acts described in this subdivision:
(A) administering:
(i) pharmacological and therapeutic agents; or
(ii) blood products or anesthetic agents through the extracorporeal circuit or through an intravenous line as ordered by a physician;
(B) performing and using anticoagulation analysis, physiologic analysis, blood gas and chemistry analysis, hematocrit analysis, hypothermia, hyperthermia, hemoconcentration, and hemodilution; and
(C) observing signs and symptoms related to perfusion services, determining whether the signs and symptoms exhibit abnormal characteristics, and implementing appropriate reporting, perfusion protocols, or changes in or the initiation of emergency procedures.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.004. APPLICATION OF CHAPTER. This chapter does not apply to:
(1) a qualified perfusionist employed by the United States government while discharging official duties;
(2) a person licensed by another health professional licensing board if the person:
(A) does not directly or indirectly represent to the public that the person is licensed under this chapter and does not use a name, title, or other designation indicating that the person is licensed under this chapter; and
(B) confines the scope of the person's practice to that authorized by the law under which the person is licensed as a health professional;
(3) a student enrolled in an accredited perfusion education program if the perfusion services performed by the student:
(A) are an integral part of the student's course of study; and
(B) are directly supervised by a licensed perfusionist who:
(i) is assigned to supervise the student; and
(ii) is on duty and immediately available in the assigned patient care area;
(4) a person who successfully completes an approved perfusion education program but has not been issued a provisional license under Section 603.259 if the person:
(A) complies with Section 603.259(c); and
(B) receives a provisional license not later than the 180th day after the date the person successfully completes the program; or
(5) a person performing autotransfusion or blood conservation techniques under the supervision of a licensed physician.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.005. APPLICATION OF SUNSET ACT. The Texas State Perfusionist Advisory Committee is subject to Chapter 325, Government Code (Texas Sunset Act). Unless continued in existence as provided by that chapter, the committee is abolished September 1, 2017.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.006. APPLICABILITY OF OTHER LAW. Chapter 2110, Government Code, does not apply to the committee.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER B. TEXAS STATE PERFUSIONIST ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Sec. 603.051. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP. (a) The Texas State Perfusionist Advisory Committee consists of five members appointed by the commissioner as follows:
(1) two licensed perfusionist members who have been licensed under this chapter for at least three years before the date of appointment;
(2) one physician member licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners who is certified by that board in cardiovascular surgery; and
(3) two members who represent the public.
(b) Appointments to the committee shall reflect the historical and cultural diversity of the inhabitants of this state.
(c) Appointments to the committee shall be made without regard to the race, color, disability, sex, religion, age, or national origin of the appointee.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.0511. ELIGIBILITY OF PUBLIC MEMBERS. A person may not be a public member of the committee if the person or the person's spouse:
(1) is registered, certified, or licensed by a regulatory agency in the field of health care;
(2) is employed by or participates in the management of a business entity or other organization regulated by or receiving money from the department;
(3) owns or controls, directly or indirectly, more than a 10 percent interest in a business entity or other organization regulated by or receiving money from the department; or
(4) uses or receives a substantial amount of tangible goods, services, or money from the department other than compensation or reimbursement authorized by law for committee membership, attendance, or expenses.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.052. MEMBERSHIP AND EMPLOYEE RESTRICTIONS. (a) In this section, "Texas trade association" means a cooperative and voluntarily joined statewide association of business or professional competitors in this state designed to assist its members and its industry or profession in dealing with mutual business or professional problems and in promoting their common interests.
(b) A person may not be a committee member and may not be a department employee employed in a "bona fide executive, administrative, or professional capacity," as that phrase is used for purposes of establishing an exemption to the overtime provisions of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. Section 201 et seq.) if:
(1) the person is an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a Texas trade association in the field of health care; or
(2) the person's spouse is an officer, manager, or paid consultant of a Texas trade association in the field of health care.
(c) A person may not be a member of the committee or act as the general counsel to the committee or the department if the person is required to register as a lobbyist under Chapter 305, Government Code, because of the person's activities for compensation on behalf of a profession related to the operation of the department.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.053. TERMS. Members of the committee serve staggered six-year terms. The terms of one or two members, as appropriate, expire on February 1 of each odd-numbered year.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.054. GROUNDS FOR REMOVAL. (a) It is a ground for removal from the committee that a member:
(1) does not have at the time of taking office the qualifications required by Section 603.051;
(2) does not maintain during service on the committee the qualifications required by Section 603.051;
(3) is ineligible for membership under Section 603.0511 or 603.052;
(4) cannot, because of illness or disability, discharge the member's duties for a substantial part of the member's term; or
(5) is absent from more than half of the regularly scheduled committee meetings that the member is eligible to attend during a calendar year without an excuse approved by a majority vote of the committee.
(b) The validity of an action of the committee is not affected by the fact that it is taken when a ground for removal of a member of the committee exists.
(c) If the executive secretary has knowledge that a potential ground for removal exists, the executive secretary shall notify the presiding officer of the committee of the potential ground. The presiding officer shall then notify the commissioner and the attorney general that a potential ground for removal exists. If the potential ground for removal involves the presiding officer, the executive secretary shall notify the next highest ranking officer of the committee, who shall then notify the commissioner and the attorney general that a potential ground for removal exists.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 10, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.055. REIMBURSEMENT. A member is entitled to reimbursement for expenses as provided by the General Appropriations Act.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 11, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.056. OFFICERS. (a) Not later than the 30th day after the date the commissioner appoints new committee members, the commissioner shall designate a presiding officer. The presiding officer serves at the pleasure of the commissioner.
(b) The committee may appoint additional officers as necessary.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 12, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.057. MEETINGS. The committee shall meet subject to the call of the commissioner.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 13, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.058. TRAINING. (a) A person who is appointed to and qualifies for office as a member of the committee may not vote, deliberate, or be counted as a member in attendance at a meeting of the committee until the person completes a training program that complies with this section.
(b) The training program must provide the person with information regarding:
(1) this chapter and the committee's programs, functions, rules, and budget;
(2) the results of the most recent formal audit of the department;
(3) the requirements of laws relating to open meetings, public information, administrative procedure, and conflicts of interest; and
(4) any applicable ethics policies adopted by the executive commissioner or the Texas Ethics Commission.
(c) A person appointed to the committee is entitled to reimbursement, as provided by the General Appropriations Act, for the travel expenses incurred in attending the training program regardless of whether the attendance at the program occurs before or after the person qualifies for office.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 14, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER C. EXECUTIVE SECRETARY AND OTHER PERSONNEL
Sec. 603.101. EXECUTIVE SECRETARY. The commissioner shall designate a department employee to serve as executive secretary of the committee.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 15, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.102. EXECUTIVE SECRETARY POWERS AND DUTIES. In addition to performing other duties prescribed by this chapter and by the department, the executive secretary shall:
(1) administer licensing activity for the department;
(2) keep full and accurate minutes of the committee's transactions and proceedings;
(3) serve as custodian of the committee's files and other records;
(4) prepare and recommend to the department plans and procedures necessary to implement the objectives of this chapter, including rules and proposals on administrative procedure;
(5) exercise general supervision over persons employed by the department in the administration of this chapter;
(6) investigate complaints and present formal complaints;
(7) attend all committee meetings as a nonvoting participant;
(8) handle the committee's correspondence; and
(9) obtain, assemble, or prepare reports and other information as directed or authorized by the committee.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 16, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.103. OTHER PERSONNEL AND FACILITIES. (a) The department shall provide department personnel and department facilities as the basic personnel and necessary facilities required to administer this chapter.
(b) Repealed by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 66, eff. September 1, 2005.
(c) If necessary to administer this chapter, the department by agreement may:
(1) obtain and provide compensation for services; and
(2) employ professional consultants, technical assistants, or other persons on a full-time or part-time basis.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 66, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.105. QUALIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS OF CONDUCT INFORMATION. The department shall provide, as often as necessary, to its employees information regarding their:
(1) qualifications for office or employment under this chapter; and
(2) responsibilities under applicable laws relating to standards of conduct for state officers or employees.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 17, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.106. CAREER LADDER PROGRAM; PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS. (a) The commissioner shall develop an intra-agency career ladder program. The program must require intra-agency posting of all nonentry level positions concurrently with any public posting.
(b) The commissioner shall develop a system of annual performance evaluations based on measurable job tasks. All merit pay for department employees must be based on the system established under this subsection.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 18, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.107. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY; REPORT. (a) The commissioner shall prepare and maintain a written policy statement to ensure implementation of an equal employment opportunity program under which all personnel transactions are made without regard to race, color, disability, sex, religion, age, or national origin. The policy statement must include:
(1) personnel policies, including policies relating to recruitment, evaluation, selection, application, training, and promotion, that are in compliance with Chapter 21, Labor Code;
(2) a comprehensive analysis of the committee workforce that meets federal and state guidelines;
(3) procedures by which a determination can be made of significant underuse in the committee workforce of all persons for whom federal or state guidelines encourage a more equitable balance; and
(4) reasonable methods to appropriately address those areas of underuse.
(b) A policy statement prepared under Subsection (a) must:
(1) cover an annual period;
(2) be updated annually;
(3) be reviewed by the Commission on Human Rights for compliance with Subsection (a)(1); and
(4) be filed with the governor.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 19, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER D. POWERS AND DUTIES
Sec. 603.151. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF COMMISSIONER. The commissioner shall:
(1) establish the qualifications and fitness of applicants for licenses, including renewed and reciprocal licenses;
(2) revoke, suspend, or deny a license, probate a license suspension, or reprimand a license holder for a violation of this chapter, a rule adopted by the executive commissioner, or the code of ethics adopted by the executive commissioner;
(3) spend money necessary to administer the department's duties;
(4) request and receive necessary assistance from another state agency, including a state educational institution;
(5) adopt an official seal; and
(6) adopt and publish a code of ethics.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 20, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.152. GENERAL RULEMAKING AUTHORITY. The executive commissioner may adopt rules necessary to:
(1) regulate the practice of perfusion;
(2) enforce this chapter; and
(3) perform department duties.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 21, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.153. RULES RESTRICTING ADVERTISING OR COMPETITIVE BIDDING. (a) The executive commissioner may not adopt a rule restricting advertising or competitive bidding by a person regulated by the department except to prohibit a false, misleading, or deceptive practice.
(b) The executive commissioner may not include in rules to prohibit a false, misleading, or deceptive practice by a person regulated by the department a rule that:
(1) restricts the person's use of any medium for advertising;
(2) restricts the person's personal appearance or use of the person's voice in an advertisement;
(3) relates to the size or duration of any advertisement by the person; or
(4) restricts the use by the person of a trade name in advertising.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 22, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.1535. RULES ON CONSEQUENCES OF CRIMINAL CONVICTION. (a) The executive commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to comply with Chapter 53.
(b) In rules under this section, the executive commissioner shall list the specific offenses for which a conviction would constitute grounds for the commissioner to take action under Section 53.021.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 23, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.154. FEES. After consulting the commissioner or the department, the executive commissioner shall set fees in amounts reasonable and necessary to cover the costs of administering this chapter.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 24, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.155. EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER AND DEPARTMENT DUTIES REGARDING COMPLAINTS. (a) The executive commissioner by rule shall:
(1) adopt a form to standardize information concerning complaints made to the department; and
(2) prescribe information to be provided to a person when the person files a complaint with the department.
(b) The department shall provide reasonable assistance to a person who wishes to file a complaint with the department.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 25, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.156. REGISTRY. The department shall prepare a registry of licensed perfusionists and provisionally licensed perfusionists that is available to the public, license holders, and appropriate state agencies.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 26, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.158. USE OF TECHNOLOGY. The executive commissioner shall implement a policy requiring the department to use appropriate technological solutions to improve the department's ability to perform its functions. The policy must ensure that the public is able to interact with the department on the Internet.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 28, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.159. NEGOTIATED RULEMAKING AND ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION POLICY. (a) The executive commissioner shall develop and implement a policy to encourage the use of:
(1) negotiated rulemaking procedures under Chapter 2008, Government Code, for the adoption of rules; and
(2) appropriate alternative dispute resolution procedures under Chapter 2009, Government Code, to assist in the resolution of internal and external disputes under the department's jurisdiction.
(b) The department's procedures relating to alternative dispute resolution must conform, to the extent possible, to any model guidelines issued by the State Office of Administrative Hearings for the use of alternative dispute resolution by state agencies.
(c) The commissioner shall designate a trained person to:
(1) coordinate the implementation of the policy adopted under Subsection (a);
(2) serve as a resource for any training needed to implement the procedures for negotiated rulemaking or alternative dispute resolution; and
(3) collect data concerning the effectiveness of those procedures, as implemented by the department.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 28, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER E. PUBLIC INTEREST INFORMATION AND COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
Sec. 603.201. PUBLIC INTEREST INFORMATION. (a) The department shall prepare information of consumer interest describing the profession of perfusion, the regulatory functions of the department, and the procedures by which consumer complaints are filed with and resolved by the department.
(b) The department shall make the information available to the public and appropriate state agencies.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 29, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.202. COMPLAINTS. (a) The executive commissioner by rule shall establish methods by which consumers and service recipients are notified of the name, mailing address, and telephone number of the department for the purpose of directing complaints to the department. The department may provide for that notice:
(1) on each license form, application, or written contract for services of a person licensed under this chapter;
(2) on a sign prominently displayed in the place of business of each person licensed under this chapter; or
(3) in a bill for services provided by a person licensed under this chapter.
(b) The department shall list with its regular telephone number any toll-free telephone number established under other state law that may be called to present a complaint about a health professional.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 30, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.203. RECORDS OF COMPLAINTS. (a) The department shall maintain a system to promptly and efficiently act on complaints filed with the department. The department shall maintain:
(1) information about the parties to the complaint and the subject matter of the complaint;
(2) a summary of the results of the review or investigation of the complaint; and
(3) information about the disposition of the complaint.
(b) The department shall make information available describing its procedures for complaint investigation and resolution.
(c) The department shall periodically notify the parties of the status of the complaint until final disposition of the complaint.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 31, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.204. GENERAL RULES REGARDING COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION AND DISPOSITION. (a) The executive commissioner shall adopt rules concerning the investigation of a complaint filed with the department. The rules shall:
(1) distinguish among categories of complaints;
(2) ensure that a complaint is not dismissed without appropriate consideration;
(3) require that the commissioner be advised of a complaint that is dismissed and that a letter be sent to the person who filed the complaint explaining the action taken on the dismissed complaint;
(4) ensure that the person who filed the complaint has an opportunity to explain the allegations made in the complaint; and
(5) prescribe guidelines concerning the categories of complaints that require the use of a private investigator and the procedures for the department to obtain the services of a private investigator.
(b) The department shall:
(1) dispose of each complaint in a timely manner; and
(2) establish, not later than the 30th day after the date the department receives a complaint, a schedule for conducting each phase of the complaint resolution process that is under the control of the department.
(c) Each party to the complaint shall be notified of the projected time requirements for pursuing the complaint. Each party shall be notified of any change in the schedule established under Subsection (b)(2) not later than the seventh day after the date the change is made.
(d) The executive secretary shall notify the commissioner of a complaint that is not resolved within the time prescribed by the commissioner for resolving the complaint so that the commissioner may take necessary action on the complaint.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 32, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.2041. SUBPOENAS. (a) In an investigation of a complaint filed with the department, the department may request that the commissioner or the commissioner's designee approve the issuance of a subpoena. If the request is approved, the department may issue a subpoena to compel the attendance of a relevant witness or the production, for inspection or copying, of relevant evidence that is in this state.
(b) A subpoena may be served personally or by certified mail.
(c) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena, the department, acting through the attorney general, may file suit to enforce the subpoena in a district court in Travis County or in the county in which a hearing conducted by the department may be held.
(d) On finding that good cause exists for issuing the subpoena, the court shall order the person to comply with the subpoena. The court may punish a person who fails to obey the court order.
(e) The commissioner may delegate the authority granted under Subsection (a) to the executive secretary of the committee.
(f) The department shall pay a reasonable fee for photocopies subpoenaed under this section in an amount not to exceed the amount the department may charge for copies of its records.
(g) The reimbursement of the expenses of a witness whose attendance is compelled under this section is governed by Section 2001.103, Government Code.
(h) All information and materials subpoenaed or compiled by the department in connection with a complaint and investigation are confidential and not subject to disclosure under Chapter 552, Government Code, and not subject to disclosure, discovery, subpoena, or other means of legal compulsion for their release to anyone other than the department or its agents or employees involved in discipline of the holder of a license, except that this information may be disclosed to:
(1) persons involved with the department in a disciplinary action against the holder of a license;
(2) professional perfusionist licensing or disciplinary boards in other jurisdictions;
(3) peer assistance programs approved by the department under Chapter 467, Health and Safety Code;
(4) law enforcement agencies; and
(5) persons engaged in bona fide research, if all individual-identifying information has been deleted.
(i) The filing of formal charges by the department against a holder of a license, the nature of those charges, disciplinary proceedings of the department, and final disciplinary actions, including warnings and reprimands, by the department are not confidential and are subject to disclosure in accordance with Chapter 552, Government Code.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1420, Sec. 14.338(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 33, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.205. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION. (a) The State Health Services Council shall develop and implement policies that provide the public with a reasonable opportunity to appear before the State Health Services Council and to speak on any issue related to the practice of perfusion.
(b) The commissioner shall prepare and maintain a written plan that describes how a person who does not speak English or who has a physical, mental, or developmental disability may be provided reasonable access to the department's programs.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 34, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER F. LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 603.251. LICENSE REQUIRED. (a) A person may not engage or offer to engage in perfusion for compensation unless the person holds an appropriate license issued under this chapter.
(b) A person may not, unless the person holds an appropriate license issued under this chapter:
(1) use the title or represent or imply that the person has the title "licensed perfusionist" or "provisional licensed perfusionist" or use the letters "LP" or "PLP"; or
(2) use a facsimile of those titles to represent or imply that the person is a licensed perfusionist or provisionally licensed perfusionist.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.252. LICENSE APPLICATION. (a) An applicant for a perfusionist license must submit a sworn application accompanied by the application fee.
(b) The executive commissioner shall prescribe the application form and by rule may establish dates by which applications and fees must be received.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 35, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.253. COMPETENCY EXAMINATION. (a) An applicant must pass a competency examination to qualify for a license under this chapter.
(b) The department shall prepare or approve an examination. The department may prescribe an examination that consists of or includes a written examination given by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion or by a national or state testing service.
(c) The department shall have any written portion of the examination validated by an independent testing professional.
(d) The department shall administer an examination to qualified applicants at least once each calendar year.
(e) On receipt of an application and application fee, the department shall waive the examination requirement for an applicant who, at the time of application:
(1) is licensed or certified by another state that has licensing or certification requirements the department determines to be substantially equivalent to the requirements of this chapter; or
(2) holds a certificate as a certified clinical perfusionist issued by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion before January 1, 1994, authorizing the holder to practice perfusion in a state that does not license or certify perfusionists.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 36, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.2535. JURISPRUDENCE EXAMINATION. (a) An applicant must pass a jurisprudence examination to qualify for a license under this chapter.
(b) The department shall develop and administer at least twice each calendar year a jurisprudence examination to determine an applicant's knowledge of this chapter, rules adopted by the executive commissioner, and any other applicable laws of this state affecting the applicant's practice of perfusion.
(c) The executive commissioner shall adopt rules to implement this section, including rules related to the development and administration of the examination, examination fees, guidelines for reexamination, grading the examination, and providing notice of examination results.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 37, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.254. QUALIFICATION FOR EXAMINATION. (a) To qualify for the licensing examinations under this chapter, an applicant must have successfully completed a perfusion education program approved by the department.
(b) The department may approve a perfusion education program only if the program has educational standards that are:
(1) at least as stringent as those established by the Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education of the American Medical Association or its successor; and
(2) approved by the Commission on Accreditation of the Allied Health Education Program of the American Medical Association or its successor.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 38, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.255. INVESTIGATION OF APPLICANT. (a) The department shall notify an applicant in writing of the receipt and investigation of the applicant's application and any other relevant evidence relating to qualifications established by an executive commissioner rule not later than:
(1) the 45th day after the date a properly submitted and timely application is received; and
(2) the 30th day before the next examination date.
(b) The notice must state whether the applicant has qualified for examination based on the application and other submitted evidence. If the applicant is not qualified, the notice must state the reasons for the applicant's failure to qualify.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 39, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.256. EXAMINATION RESULTS. (a) The department shall notify each examinee of the examination results not later than the 30th day after the date the examination is administered. If an examination is graded or reviewed by a national or state testing service, the department shall notify each examinee of the examination results not later than the 14th day after the date the department receives the results from the testing service.
(b) If the notice of the results of an examination graded or reviewed by a national or state testing service will be delayed for longer than 90 days after the examination date, the department shall notify each examinee of the reason for the delay before the 90th day.
(c) If requested in writing by a person who fails the examination, the department shall provide to the person an analysis of the person's performance on the examination.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.257. REEXAMINATION AND ALTERNATIVES TO EXAMINATION. The executive commissioner by rule shall establish:
(1) a limit on the number of times an applicant who fails an examination may retake the examination;
(2) requirements for retaking an examination; and
(3) alternative methods of examining competency.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 40, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.258. ISSUANCE OF LICENSE. A person who meets the qualifications for a license under this chapter is entitled to a license.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.259. PROVISIONAL LICENSE. (a) The department may issue a provisional license to an applicant who files an application, pays an application fee, and submits evidence satisfactory to the department of successful completion of the education requirement under Section 603.254.
(b) A person who meets the qualifications for a provisional license under this chapter is entitled to a provisional license.
(c) A provisionally licensed perfusionist must practice under the supervision and direction of a licensed perfusionist while performing perfusion. If the department finds that a licensed perfusionist is not reasonably available to provide supervision and direction and if the department approves an application submitted to the department by the provisionally licensed perfusionist, supervision and direction may be provided by a physician who is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners and certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgeons, Inc., or certified in cardiovascular surgery by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery.
(d) The executive commissioner may not adopt a rule governing supervision and direction that requires the immediate physical presence of the supervising person.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 41, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER G. LICENSE RENEWAL
Sec. 603.301. LICENSE RENEWAL. (a) A license is valid for two years from the date of issuance and may be renewed biennially.
(b) The executive commissioner by rule may adopt a system under which licenses expire on various dates during the year.
(c) A person may renew an unexpired license by paying the required renewal fee to the department before the license expiration date.
(d) A person whose license has been expired for 90 days or less may renew the license by paying to the department a fee that is equal to 1-1/4 times the amount of the renewal fee. If a license has been expired for more than 90 days but less than one year, the person may renew the license by paying to the department a fee that is equal to 1-1/2 times the amount of the renewal fee.
(e) Except as provided by Section 603.303, a person whose license has been expired for one year or more may not renew the license. The person may obtain a new license by submitting to reexamination and complying with the requirements and procedures for obtaining an original license.
(f) Before the 30th day before a person's license expiration date, the department shall send written notice of the impending license expiration to the person at the person's last known address according to department records.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 42, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.302. PROVISIONAL LICENSE RENEWAL. A provisional license expires on the first anniversary of the date of issuance and, if the supervising licensed perfusionist or physician described by Section 603.259(c) signs the renewal application, the license may be renewed annually not more than five times by complying with the renewal procedures under this subchapter.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.303. RENEWAL OF EXPIRED LICENSE BY OUT-OF-STATE PRACTITIONER. (a) The department may renew without reexamination an expired license of a person who was licensed as a perfusionist in this state, moved to another state, and is licensed or certified and has been in practice in the other state for the two years preceding the date the person applies for renewal.
(b) The person must pay to the department a fee that is equal to the amount of the renewal fee for the license.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 43, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.304. CONTINUING EDUCATION. (a) To renew a license under this chapter, a person must submit proof satisfactory to the department that the person has complied with the continuing education requirements prescribed by the department.
(b) The executive commissioner shall establish continuing education programs for licensed perfusionists and provisionally licensed perfusionists under this chapter. The standards of the programs must be at least as stringent as the standards of the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion or its successor.
(c) The executive commissioner shall:
(1) establish a minimum number of hours of continuing education required for license renewal under this chapter; and
(2) develop a process to evaluate and approve continuing education courses.
(d) The executive commissioner shall identify key factors for a license holder's competent performance of professional duties. The executive commissioner shall adopt a procedure to assess a license holder's participation in continuing education programs.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 44, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.305. GROUNDS FOR REFUSING RENEWAL. The department may refuse to renew the license of a person who fails to pay an administrative penalty imposed under Subchapter K unless enforcement of the penalty is stayed or a court has ordered that the administrative penalty is not owed.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 45, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER H. PRACTICE BY LICENSE HOLDER
Sec. 603.351. DISPLAY OF LICENSE. A person licensed under this chapter shall:
(1) display the person's license certificate in an appropriate and public manner; or
(2) maintain a copy of the person's license certificate in the appropriate records of any health care facility in which the license holder provides services.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.352. LICENSE HOLDER INFORMATION. A person licensed under this chapter shall keep the department informed of any change in the license holder's address.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.353. SURRENDER OF LICENSE. A license certificate issued by the department is the property of the department and shall be surrendered on demand.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 46, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.354. CERTIFICATION FROM AMERICAN BOARD OF CARDIOVASCULAR PERFUSION. Unless a person holds a certificate as a certified clinical perfusionist issued by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion, the person may not:
(1) use the title or represent or imply that the person has the title "certified clinical perfusionist" or use the letters "CCP"; or
(2) use a facsimile of that title to represent or imply that the person is a clinical perfusionist certified by that board.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
SUBCHAPTER I. DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Sec. 603.401. GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION. If a license holder violates this chapter or a rule or code of ethics adopted by the executive commissioner, the department shall:
(1) revoke or suspend the license;
(2) place on probation the person if the person's license has been suspended;
(3) reprimand the license holder; or
(4) refuse to renew the license.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 47, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.402. HEARING. (a) If the department proposes to revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew a person's license, the person is entitled to a hearing before a hearings officer appointed by the State Office of Administrative Hearings.
(b) The executive commissioner shall prescribe procedures for appealing to the commissioner a decision to revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew a license.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 48, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.403. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE. A proceeding under this subchapter to suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a license is governed by Chapter 2001, Government Code.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 49, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.404. SANCTIONS. (a) The executive commissioner by rule shall adopt a broad schedule of sanctions for a violation of this chapter.
(b) The State Office of Administrative Hearings shall use the schedule of sanctions for a sanction imposed as the result of a hearing conducted by that office.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 50, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.405. PROBATION. The department may require a person whose license suspension is probated to:
(1) report regularly to the department on matters that are the basis of the probation;
(2) limit practice to areas prescribed by the department; or
(3) continue the person's professional education until the license holder attains a degree of skill satisfactory to the department in those areas that are the basis of the probation.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 51, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.406. MONITORING OF LICENSE HOLDER. (a) The executive commissioner by rule shall develop a system for monitoring a license holder's compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
(b) Rules adopted under this section must include procedures to:
(1) monitor for compliance a license holder who is ordered by the department to perform certain acts; and
(2) identify and monitor license holders who represent a risk to the public.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 52, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.407. INFORMAL PROCEDURES. (a) The executive commissioner by rule shall adopt procedures governing:
(1) informal disposition of a contested case under Section 2001.056, Government Code; and
(2) an informal proceeding held in compliance with Section 2001.054, Government Code.
(b) Rules adopted under Subsection (a) must:
(1) provide the complainant and the license holder an opportunity to be heard; and
(2) require the presence of a representative of the attorney general or the department's legal counsel to advise the department or the department's employees.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 53, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.408. EMERGENCY SUSPENSION. (a) The department shall temporarily suspend the license of a license holder if the department determines from the evidence or information presented to it that continued practice by the license holder would constitute a continuing and imminent threat to the public welfare.
(b) A license may be suspended under this section without notice or hearing on the complaint if:
(1) action is taken to initiate proceedings for a hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings simultaneously with the temporary suspension; and
(2) a hearing is held as soon as practicable under this chapter and Chapter 2001, Government Code.
(c) The State Office of Administrative Hearings shall hold a preliminary hearing not later than the 14th day after the date of the temporary suspension to determine if there is probable cause to believe that a continuing and imminent threat to the public welfare still exists. A final hearing on the matter shall be held not later than the 61st day after the date of the temporary suspension.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 17, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 54, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.409. REFUND. (a) Subject to Subsection (b), the department may order a license holder to pay a refund to a consumer as provided in an agreement resulting from an informal settlement conference instead of or in addition to imposing an administrative penalty under this chapter.
(b) The amount of a refund ordered as provided in an agreement resulting from an informal settlement conference may not exceed the amount the consumer paid to the license holder for a service regulated by this chapter. The department may not require payment of other damages or estimate harm in a refund order.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 55, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER J. PENALTIES AND ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS
Sec. 603.451. INJUNCTION. (a) The department may request the attorney general or the appropriate county or district attorney to commence an action to enjoin a violation of this chapter.
(b) The remedy provided by this section is in addition to any other action authorized by law.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 56, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.4515. CIVIL PENALTY. (a) A person who violates this chapter, a rule adopted by the executive commissioner, or an order adopted by the commissioner under this chapter is liable for a civil penalty not to exceed $5,000 a day.
(b) At the request of the department, the attorney general shall bring an action to recover a civil penalty authorized under this section.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 18, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 57, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.452. CRIMINAL PENALTY. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly violates Section 603.251 or 603.354.
(b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Sec. 603.453. CEASE AND DESIST ORDER. (a) If it appears to the commissioner that a person who is not licensed under this chapter is violating this chapter, a rule adopted under this chapter, or another state statute or rule relating to the practice of perfusion, the commissioner after notice and an opportunity for a hearing may issue a cease and desist order prohibiting the person from engaging in the activity.
(b) A violation of an order under this section constitutes grounds for imposing an administrative penalty under this chapter.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 58, eff. September 1, 2005.
SUBCHAPTER K. ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTY
Sec. 603.501. IMPOSITION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTY. The department may impose an administrative penalty on a person licensed under this chapter who violates this chapter or a rule or order adopted under this chapter.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 59, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.502. AMOUNT OF ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTY. (a) The amount of the administrative penalty may not be less than $50 or more than $5,000 for each violation. Each day a violation continues or occurs is a separate violation for the purpose of imposing a penalty.
(b) The amount shall be based on:
(1) the seriousness of the violation, including the nature, circumstances, extent, and gravity of the violation;
(2) the economic harm caused by the violation;
(3) the history of previous violations;
(4) the amount necessary to deter a future violation;
(5) efforts to correct the violation; and
(6) any other matter that justice may require.
(c) The executive commissioner by rule shall adopt an administrative penalty schedule based on the criteria listed in Subsection (b) for violations of this chapter or applicable rules to ensure that the amounts of penalties imposed are appropriate to the violation. The executive commissioner shall provide the administrative penalty schedule to the public on request.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 60, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.503. REPORT AND NOTICE OF VIOLATION AND PENALTY. (a) If the commissioner or the commissioner's designee determines that a violation occurred, the commissioner or the designee may issue to the department a report stating:
(1) the facts on which the determination is based; and
(2) the commissioner's or the designee's recommendation on the imposition of an administrative penalty, including a recommendation on the amount of the penalty.
(b) Within 14 days after the date the report is issued, the commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall give written notice of the report to the person. The notice must:
(1) include a brief summary of the alleged violation;
(2) state the amount of the recommended administrative penalty; and
(3) inform the person of the person's right to a hearing on the occurrence of the violation, the amount of the penalty, or both.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 61, eff. September 1, 2005.
Text of section effective on March 01, 2012
Sec. 603.504. PENALTY TO BE PAID OR HEARING REQUESTED. (a) Within 10 days after the date the person receives the notice, the person in writing may:
(1) accept the determination and recommended administrative penalty of the commissioner or the commissioner's designee; or
(2) make a request for a hearing on the occurrence of the violation, the amount of the penalty, or both.
(b) If the person accepts the determination and recommended penalty of the commissioner or the commissioner's designee, the commissioner by order shall approve the determination and impose the recommended penalty.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 62, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.505. HEARING. (a) If the person requests a hearing or fails to respond in a timely manner to the notice, the commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall set a hearing and give written notice of the hearing to the person.
(b) An administrative law judge of the State Office of Administrative Hearings shall hold the hearing.
(c) The administrative law judge shall make findings of fact and conclusions of law and promptly issue to the commissioner a proposal for a decision about the occurrence of the violation and the amount of a proposed administrative penalty.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 63, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.506. DECISION BY COMMISSIONER. (a) Based on the findings of fact, conclusions of law, and proposal for decision, the commissioner by order may determine that:
(1) a violation occurred and impose an administrative penalty; or
(2) a violation did not occur.
(b) The notice of the commissioner's order given to the person must include a statement of the right of the person to judicial review of the order.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 64, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.507. OPTIONS FOLLOWING DECISION: PAY OR APPEAL. (a) Within 30 days after the date the commissioner's order becomes final, the person shall:
(1) pay the administrative penalty; or
(2) file a petition for judicial review contesting the occurrence of the violation, the amount of the penalty, or both.
(b) Within the 30-day period prescribed by Subsection (a), a person who files a petition for judicial review may:
(1) stay enforcement of the penalty by:
(A) paying the penalty to the court for placement in an escrow account; or
(B) giving the court a supersedeas bond approved by the court that:
(i) is for the amount of the penalty; and
(ii) is effective until all judicial review of the commissioner's order is final; or
(2) request the court to stay enforcement of the penalty by:
(A) filing with the court a sworn affidavit of the person stating that the person is financially unable to pay the penalty and is financially unable to give the supersedeas bond; and
(B) giving a copy of the affidavit to the commissioner or the commissioner's designee by certified mail.
(c) If the commissioner or the commissioner's designee receives a copy of an affidavit under Subsection (b)(2), the commissioner or the designee may file with the court, within five days after the date the copy is received, a contest to the affidavit.
(d) The court shall hold a hearing on the facts alleged in the affidavit as soon as practicable and shall stay the enforcement of the penalty on finding that the alleged facts are true. The person who files an affidavit has the burden of proving that the person is financially unable to pay the penalty and to give a supersedeas bond.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 231, Sec. 65, eff. September 1, 2005.
Sec. 603.508. COLLECTION OF PENALTY. (a) If the person does not pay the administrative penalty and the enforcement of the penalty is not stayed, the penalty may be collected.
(b) The attorney general may sue to collect the penalty.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Sec. 603.509. DETERMINATION BY COURT. (a) If the court sustains the determination that a violation occurred, the court may uphold or reduce the amount of the administrative penalty and order the person to pay the full or reduced amount of the penalty.
(b) If the court does not sustain the finding that a violation occurred, the court shall order that a penalty is not owed.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Sec. 603.510. REMITTANCE OF PENALTY AND INTEREST. (a) If the person paid the administrative penalty and if the amount of the penalty is reduced or the penalty is not upheld by the court, the court shall order, when the court's judgment becomes final, that the appropriate amount plus accrued interest be remitted to the person.
(b) The interest accrues at the rate charged on loans to depository institutions by the New York Federal Reserve Bank.
(c) The interest shall be paid for the period beginning on the date the penalty is paid and ending on the date the penalty is remitted.
(d) If the person gave a supersedeas bond and the penalty is not upheld by the court, the court shall order, when the court's judgment becomes final, the release of the bond.
(e) If the person gave a supersedeas bond and the amount of the penalty is reduced, the court shall order the release of the bond after the person pays the reduced amount.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Sec. 603.511. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE. A proceeding under this subchapter is a contested case under Chapter 2001, Government Code.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 326, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
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