On The Level: January 2023


On The Level new

Vol. 8     |  January 2023


A Note From Mike Arismendez, TDLR Executive Director

mike arismendez june 2022

A Happy new year to you and yours! We here at TDLR are already busy -- the 88th session of the Texas Legislature kicked off last Tuesday, and we are already monitoring many of the bills that have been filed.

I'd like to urge you to bookmark our Legislative Update page (more information is in the article below) and make a note to check back occasionally for any bills that may affect your license.

If you see a bill you feel strongly about, please reach out to your State Representative or State Senator and let them know your thoughts. They want to hear from you - and your input is an important part of the legislative process. If you aren't sure who represents you in the Texas Legislature, you can look that up on the Texas Legislature's website.

Thank you for all you do to make Texas a special place to live and work. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please email me. I want to hear from you.


Legislative Update

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On January 10, 2023, the Texas Legislature convened in Austin to inaugurate the 88th Regular Session. In accordance with the Texas Constitution, lawmakers gather every other year for 140 days to conduct the business of the Great State of Texas. The session is scheduled to end May 29, 2023.

Throughout this session, you can keep up with legislation that may impact the building and professional trades by visiting TDLR’s 88th Texas Legislature webpage. There you will find bills listed by program that may have some impact or be of interest to you and those in your industry.

Clicking on the bill number in blue text will take you to the Texas Legislature Online (TLO) page for that particular bill. You can read the text and history of the bill, and find out where it is currently in the legislative process. The TLO website offers some very helpful resources for learning about how to follow a bill: How to Follow a Bill Using TLO

As always, TDLR’s government relations team and executive leadership will be following the action closely at the Legislature, and we will do our best to keep your advisory boards and stakeholders in the loop on any pending legislation. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions on legislation at government.relations@tdlr.texas.gov and we’ll be glad to get you answers.


electrical safety equipment

Take Time To Review Your Electrical Safety Practices - Whether Or Not You're An Electrician

We use electricity every day. We are surrounded by it, and most of us think we know enough about electricity to stay safe and keep our family out of harm’s way.

However, every year hundreds of people die, thousands are injured and millions of dollars in property damage are caused by electrical hazards that could have been avoided.

TDLR encourages Texans to review electrical safety practices before beginning any outdoor project that includes the use of electric tools or work around power lines.

  • Before beginning work inspect each electric tool for damage to its cord, plugs, housing, and wiring. If damage has occurred, take the tool to a qualified professional for repair.
  • Protect yourself from injury. Always turn the electric tool off, unplug it and put it in the lock position when carrying or connecting attachments such as saw blades.
  • Never leave electric tools unattended where children or unqualified adults can harm themselves.
  • Safety devices on electric tools are there for a reason -- never remove them. Always make sure safety devices are in place before operating the tool.
  • Wear appropriate clothing for the job.
  • Wear safety goggles, hearing protection, dust masks, gloves and other safety equipment as recommend for each tool.
  • Use wooden or fiberglass ladders when working near electrical wiring - never metal ladders. Metal ladders can conduct electricity and possibly electrocute someone standing on one. 
  • Use only weather-resistant heavy gauge extension cords that are marked for outdoor usage. Weather-resistant cords have added safeguards to withstand the outdoor environment.
  • Examine your extension cords before each use and replace damaged cords immediately.
  • Extension cords are for short term, temporary, use and not for long term power solutions.
  • Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of standing water and protected from the elements.
  • Check the surrounding area to ensure you will not accidentally encounter overhead power lines.

Make Sure Your Elevator Or Escalator Equipment Is Properly Maintained and Inspected Annually

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Elevator and escalator equipment must be properly maintained by a licensed elevator contractor and inspected annually by a licensed elevator inspector.

When you properly maintain your equipment and have inspections performed as required, it's easier to detect emergent issues, decrease downtime and promote rider safety.

If you're a building owner, ensuring that your equipment adheres to specified codes and regulations and operates safely can provide peace of mind.

To locate Elevator Contractors and Inspectors, please visit the TDLR License Data Search.