Signed Into Law
Signed June 20, 2025Effective 2025-06-20
HB1237

Regular Session

Relating to the renewal by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of certain expired occupational licenses and registrations.

Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis

Business Impact

Who HB1237 Affects

Regulatory Priority: moderate

Notable regulatory updates (effective 2025-06-20). Consider how these changes may affect your operations.

Estimated Cost Impact

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Compliance Analysis

Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation

Immediate Action Plan

Operational Changes Required

Strategic Ambiguities & Considerations

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Information presented is for general knowledge only and is provided without warranty, express or implied. Consult qualified government affairs professionals and legal counsel before making compliance decisions.

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Quick Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about HB1237

Q

What does Texas HB1237 do?

Effective immediately, HB1237 fundamentally restructures TCEQ occupational license renewals, extending the expiration grace period from 30 days to 180 days. The critical operational change is the creation of a "Safe Harbor" (0–90 days post-expiration) where employees may legally continue working if a renewal application is pending, preventing unnecessary work stoppages.

Q

Who authored HB1237?

HB1237 was authored by Texas Representative Ryan Guillen during the Regular Session.

Q

When was HB1237 signed into law?

HB1237 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025.

Q

Which agencies enforce HB1237?

HB1237 is enforced by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Q

How significant are the changes in HB1237?

The regulatory priority for HB1237 is rated as "moderate". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.

Q

What is the cost impact of HB1237?

The cost impact of HB1237 is estimated as "low". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.

Q

What topics does HB1237 address?

HB1237 addresses topics including environment, environment--general, utilities, utilities--water & sewer and fees & other nontax revenue.

Q

What are the key dates for HB1237?

Key dates for HB1237: Effective date is 2025-06-20. Rulemaking: Must amend fee schedules to define specific renewal amounts (up to the 1.5x and 2x statutory caps) and update online renewal portals to accept applications beyond the previous 30-day window. (Immediate/Ongoing). Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.

Q

What are the penalties under HB1237?

HB1237 establishes the following penalties: administrative penalty of Forfeiture of License for Failure to renew license within 180 days of expiration (previously 30 days). Requires re-application and re-examination as a new applicant.. Consult with legal counsel for specific applicability to your situation.

Q

Which Texas businesses are affected by HB1237?

HB1237 primarily affects utility companies and energy providers. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.

Legislative data provided by LegiScanLast updated: January 11, 2026