15 Mar 2026

Texas Register March 13, 2026 Volume 51 Number 11

by | posted in: State Board of Dental Examiners, Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council, Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Optometry Board, Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists, Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners |

Texas Register Table of Contents

Texas Animal Health Commission

Proposed Rules Re:

Amending 4 TAC §51.3, to expand the veterinary care exception for CVI’s to equine, cattle, bison, and camelids, as well as eliminate a duplicative CVI exception for certain equine.

CHAPTER 51. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
4 TAC §51.3

OVERVIEW

The Texas Animal Health Commission (Commission) proposes amendments to Title 4, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 51 titled “Entry Requirements.” Specifically, the Commission proposes amendments to §51.3 regarding Exceptions.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The Texas Animal Health Commission proposes amendments to §51.3, concerning Exceptions. The purpose of the amendment is to eliminate duplicative regulation and expand the veterinary care permit exception to include cattle, bison, and camelids.

The Commission is tasked with creating and enforcing entry requirements for livestock, fowl, exotic livestock, and exotic fowl. The Commission requires all animals entering Texas to be accompanied by a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) unless specific exceptions apply. One such exception is the veterinary care exception found in §51.3(b)(1). This exception currently allows equine to enter Texas without a CVI if traveling directly to a veterinary clinic for treatment with a permit issued by the Commission. Equine must be returned immediately to their state of origin via the most direct route following treatment.

The Commission proposes expanding this veterinary care exception to include cattle, bison, and camelids. During road-side inspections, Commission staff stop ranchers from neighboring states crossing into Texas for routine preventative procedures like dehorning and castration. These entries are not permitted and result in compliance actions and ultimately represent gaps in TAHC’s disease tracing efforts. The proposed amendments would allow and encourage expanded access to skilled Texas veterinarians while maintaining disease traceability.

Additionally, the proposed amendments eliminate language that allows equine entering for sale at a livestock market to first be consigned to a veterinary clinic for issuance of a CVI. This exception is duplicative of an exception found in §51.13(a)(5) which allows equine entering for sale at a livestock market to first move directly to an EIA approved lab/vet clinic for testing and CVI. Both exceptions require a permit prior to entry. And presently, §51.13 is the exception used by Commission staff rather than the exception found in §51.3. This proposed amendment tidies Commission rules without changing procedure for staff or eliminating an existing exception for the public.

SECTION-BY-SECTION DISCUSSION

Section 51.3 includes exceptions to the Commission’s entry requirements. The proposed amendments expand the veterinary care exception for CVIs from equine-only to equine, cattle, bison, and camelids. The amendments also eliminate a duplicative CVI exception for equine entering for sale at a livestock market which may be consigned directly to a veterinary clinic for issuance of a CVI.

Adopted Rules Re:

Adopting 4 TAC §51.1, to add a definition for “dairy cattle” as well as make formatting changes.

CHAPTER 51. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
4 TAC §51.1

OVERVIEW

The Texas Animal Health Commission (Commission) in a duly noticed meeting on February 24, 2026, adopted amendments to Title 4, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 51 titled “Entry Requirements.” Specifically, the Commission adopted amendments to §51.1 regarding Definitions without changes to the proposed text published in the December 5, 2025 issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7811) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The Texas Animal Health Commission adopts amendments to §51.1, concerning Definitions. The purpose of the amendments is to clarify requirements for dairy cattle and dairy crosses entering the state.

Commission rules set forth testing requirements for cattle entering Texas. Specific tuberculosis testing requirements apply for dairy cattle. Commission staff responsible for permitting movement have noticed confusion surrounding the definition of dairy cattle and whether certain dairy crosses must be tested prior to entry.

Previously, Commission rules did not define dairy cattle. Staff relied on the USDA’s definition when applying and explaining Commission rules. The USDA’s definition states that all cattle, regardless of age or sex or current use, that are of a breed(s) or offspring of a breed used to produce milk or other dairy products for human consumption, including, but not limited to, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Holstein, Jersey, Guernsey, Milking Shorthorn, and Red and Whites.

The amendments incorporate the USDA’s definition into Commission rules to clarify the meaning of dairy cattle and ease confusion as to what testing requirements must be met prior to entry.

SECTION-BY-SECTION SUMMARY

Section 51.1 includes definitions. The amendments add a definition for “dairy cattle,” adjust numbering, and make minor formatting changes.

State Board of Dental Examiners

Adopted Rules Re:

Adopting 22 TAC §101.1, to require the submission of specific personal identification documents for proof of citizenship, legal permanent residency, or federal work authorization before a dental license may be issued or renewed.

CHAPTER 101. DENTAL LICENSURE
22 TAC §101.1

OVERVIEW

The State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) adopts this amendment to 22 TAC §101.1, pertaining to general qualifications for dental licensure. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 390) and will not be republished. The adopted amendment requires certain personal identification documents that an applicant must submit in an initial and renewal application for dental licensure. The adopted amendment is necessary to ensure that the applicant’s personal identification document is valid and that the applicant is legally eligible to practice dentistry in Texas. The adopted amendment would require applicants to submit appropriate documentation verifying legal presence and work authorization before a license may be issued or renewed.

The Texas Dental Association (TDA) did not specifically indicate whether it was in support or opposition of the rule as proposed. TDA provides that the proposed amendments appropriately require confirmation of citizenship or lawful work authorization. The process for submitting that documentation should be clear, consistent, and efficient for both new licensure/registrant applicants and those seeking renewal. Texas dental schools and allied oral health training programs rely heavily on the expertise and didactic and clinical teaching capability of internationally educated faculty. Implementation should therefore preserve rigorous verification standards while minimizing avoidable administrative friction, ensuring that qualified foreign educators can continue to contribute to the state’s dental education pipeline without unnecessary disruption.

Adopting 22 TAC §103.1, to outline the general qualifications for hygiene licensure.

CHAPTER 103. DENTAL HYGIENE LICENSURE
22 TAC §103.1

OVERVIEW

The State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) adopts this amendment to 22 TAC §103.1, pertaining to general qualifications for hygiene licensure. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 391) and will not be republished. The adopted amendment requires certain personal identification documents that an applicant must submit in an initial and renewal application for hygiene licensure. The adopted amendment is necessary to ensure that the applicant’s personal identification document is valid and that the applicant is legally eligible to practice hygiene in Texas. The adopted amendment would require applicants to submit appropriate documentation verifying legal presence and work authorization before a license may be issued. The adopted amendment also corrects a grammatical error.

The Texas Dental Association (TDA) did not specifically indicate whether it was in support or opposition of the rule as proposed. TDA provides that the proposed amendments appropriately require confirmation of citizenship or lawful work authorization. The process for submitting that documentation should be clear, consistent, and efficient for both new licensure/registrant applicants and those seeking renewal. Texas dental schools and allied oral health training programs rely heavily on the expertise and didactic and clinical teaching capability of internationally educated faculty. Implementation should therefore preserve rigorous verification standards while minimizing avoidable administrative friction, ensuring that qualified foreign educators can continue to contribute to the state’s dental education pipeline without unnecessary disruption.

Adopting 22 TAC §114.6, to define the general qualifications for dental assistant registration or certification and to correct a grammatical error.

CHAPTER 114. EXTENSION OF DUTIES OF AUXILIARY PERSONNEL–DENTAL ASSISTANTS
22 TAC §114.6

OVERVIEW

The State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) adopts this amendment to 22 TAC §114.6, pertaining to general qualifications for dental assistant registration or certification. The amendment is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 393) and will be republished. The adopted amendment requires certain personal identification documents that an applicant must submit in an initial and renewal application for a dental assistant registration or certification. The adopted amendment is necessary to ensure that the applicant’s personal identification document is valid and that the applicant is legally eligible to practice in Texas. The adopted amendment would require applicants to submit appropriate documentation verifying legal presence and work authorization before a registration or certification may be issued. The adopted amendment also corrects grammatical errors.

The Texas Dental Association (TDA) did not specifically indicate whether it was in support or opposition of the rule as proposed. TDA provides that the proposed amendments appropriately require confirmation of citizenship or lawful work authorization. The process for submitting that documentation should be clear, consistent, and efficient for both new licensure/registrant applicants and those seeking renewal. Texas dental schools and allied oral health training programs rely heavily on the expertise and didactic and clinical teaching capability of internationally educated faculty. Implementation should therefore preserve rigorous verification standards while minimizing avoidable administrative friction, ensuring that qualified foreign educators can continue to contribute to the state’s dental education pipeline without unnecessary disruption.

Adopting 22 TAC §116.3, to require the submission of certain documentation prior to the renewal or reissuance of dental laboratories.

CHAPTER 116. DENTAL LABORATORIES
22 TAC §116.3

OVERVIEW

The State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) adopts this amendment to 22 TAC §116.3, pertaining to registration and renewal of dental laboratories. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 395) and will not be republished. The adopted amendment requires certain personal identification documents that an individual applicant must submit in an initial and renewal application for a dental laboratory registration. The adopted amendment is necessary to ensure that the applicant’s personal identification document is valid and that the applicant is legally eligible to own a dental laboratory in Texas. The adopted amendment would require the applicant to submit appropriate documentation verifying legal presence and work authorization before a dental laboratory registration may be issued or renewed. Additionally, the adopted amendment removes references to the Dental Laboratory Certification Council (DLCC). Chapter 266 of the Texas Occupations Code pertaining to the regulation of dental laboratories was amended by Senate Bill 313 of the 85th Texas Legislature, Regular Session (2017). The bill repealed chapter sections that referenced the DLCC. The Board no longer uses the council.

The Texas Dental Association (TDA) did not specifically indicate whether it was in support or opposition of the rule as proposed. TDA provides that the proposed amendments appropriately require confirmation of citizenship or lawful work authorization. The process for submitting that documentation should be clear, consistent, and efficient for both new licensure/registrant applicants and those seeking renewal. Texas dental schools and allied oral health training programs rely heavily on the expertise and didactic and clinical teaching capability of internationally educated faculty. Implementation should therefore preserve rigorous verification standards while minimizing avoidable administrative friction, ensuring that qualified foreign educators can continue to contribute to the state’s dental education pipeline without unnecessary disruption.

Adopting 22 TAC §117.2, to require the submission of certain documentation prior to the renewal or reissuance of dental faculty licensure.

CHAPTER 117. FACULTY AND STUDENTS IN ACCREDITED DENTAL SCHOOLS
22 TAC §117.2

OVERVIEW

The State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) adopts this amendment to 22 TAC §117.2, pertaining to dental faculty licensure. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 396) and will not be republished. The adopted amendment requires certain personal identification documents that an applicant must submit in an initial and renewal application for dental faculty licensure. The adopted amendment is necessary to ensure that the applicant’s personal identification document is valid and that the applicant is legally eligible to practice as a faculty dentist in Texas. The adopted amendment would require applicants to submit appropriate documentation verifying legal presence and work authorization before a faculty license may be issued.

The Texas Dental Association (TDA) did not specifically indicate whether it was in support or opposition of the rule as proposed. TDA provides that the proposed amendments appropriately require confirmation of citizenship or lawful work authorization. The process for submitting that documentation should be clear, consistent, and efficient for both new licensure/registrant applicants and those seeking renewal. Texas dental schools and allied oral health training programs rely heavily on the expertise and didactic and clinical teaching capability of internationally educated faculty. Implementation should therefore preserve rigorous verification standards while minimizing avoidable administrative friction, ensuring that qualified foreign educators can continue to contribute to the state’s dental education pipeline without unnecessary disruption.

Adopting 22 TAC §117.3, to provide a list of accepted personal identification documentation, including a valid driver’s license, state identification certificate, passport, United States Certificate of Naturalization, or a United States Certificate of Citizenship.

CHAPTER 117. FACULTY AND STUDENTS IN ACCREDITED DENTAL SCHOOLS
22 TAC §117.3

OVERVIEW

The State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) adopts this amendment to 22 TAC §117.3, pertaining to dental hygiene faculty licensure. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 398) and will not be republished. The adopted amendment requires certain personal identification documents that an applicant must submit in an initial and renewal application for dental hygiene faculty licensure. The adopted amendment is necessary to ensure that the applicant’s personal identification document is valid and that the applicant is legally eligible to practice as a faculty hygienist in Texas. The adopted amendment would require applicants to submit appropriate documentation verifying legal presence and work authorization before a faculty license may be issued.

The Texas Dental Association (TDA) did not specifically indicate whether it was in support or opposition of the rule as proposed. TDA provides that the proposed amendments appropriately require confirmation of citizenship or lawful work authorization. The process for submitting that documentation should be clear, consistent, and efficient for both new licensure/registrant applicants and those seeking renewal. Texas dental schools and allied oral health training programs rely heavily on the expertise and didactic and clinical teaching capability of internationally educated faculty. Implementation should therefore preserve rigorous verification standards while minimizing avoidable administrative friction, ensuring that qualified foreign educators can continue to contribute to the state’s dental education pipeline without unnecessary disruption.

Texas Optometry Board

Adopted Rules Re:

Adopting 22 TAC §271.4, to incorporate definitions from Chapter 55 of the Texas Occupations Code and outline licensing requirements and related procedures.

CHAPTER 271. EXAMINATIONS
22 TAC §271.4

OVERVIEW

The Texas Optometry Board (Board) adopts new rule 22 TAC Part 14 §271.4 – Licensing for Military Service Member, Military Veteran, and Military Spouse. The Board adopts this rule with one change to the proposed text as published in the January 2, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 27). The adopted rule will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

HB 5629 and SB 1818, adopted by the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, established new criteria for licensing agencies to consider upon receipt of an application by a member of the military, veteran or a military spouse. Both bills took effect on September 1, 2025.

The new rule incorporates the updated statutory provisions into language of the current rule (previously found at 22 TAC §273.14). The Board moved the language related to military licensing from Chapter 273 to Chapter 271 to consolidate agency rules related to licensing into the same chapter for ease of use by applicants and interested parties.

HB 5629 changes the threshold of military licensing from those that have licensing requirements that are substantially equivalent to instead require the Board to consider licenses that are similar in scope of practice and that are in good standing. HB 1818 requires the Board to immediately issue a 180-day provisional license to military applicants while an application for full licensure is pending.

SECTION-BY-SECTION SUMMARY

The one change to the text can be found in subsection (d). The word “is” is changed to “if” in the second sentence to read as follows: “The Board may deny an application if the applicant has a disqualifying criminal history.” The published sentence previously read “The Board may deny an application is the applicant has a disqualifying criminal history.”

Adopting 22 TAC §273.14, to repeal the rule.

CHAPTER 273. GENERAL RULES
22 TAC §273.14

OVERVIEW

The Texas Optometry Board (Board) adopts the repeal of 22 TAC Part 14 §273.14 — License Applications for Military Service Member, Military Veteran, and Military Spouse. The Board repeals this rule with no changes as published in the January 2, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 30). The repealed rule will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

HB 5629 and SB 1818, adopted by the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, established new criteria for licensing agencies to consider upon receipt of an application by a member of the military, veteran or a military spouse. Both bills took effect on September 1, 2025. In the scope of incorporating the new provisions of the legislation, the Board determined it makes sense to move the language found in the repealed rule to the same chapter of its rules related to licensing.

The substance of the language related to military licensing is being adopted in a separate submission with the Texas Register.

Adopting 22 TAC §279.16, to add language requiring informed consent for the provision of telehealth and defining the minimum requirements to satisfy informed consent.

CHAPTER 279. INTERPRETATIONS
22 TAC §279.16

OVERVIEW

The Texas Optometry Board (Board) adopts amendments to 22 TAC Part 14 §279.16 – Telehealth Services. The Board adopts this rule with no changes to the proposed text as published in the January 2, 2026, issue of the Texas Register (51 TexReg 31). The adopted rule will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The rule specifies the informed consent documentation that is required when licensees perform telehealth services for optometry. The Board adopts this rule in accordance with House Bill 1700 of the 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session (2025), and Chapter 111, Texas Occupations Code.

The rule provides that informed consent for the provision of telehealth services shall be in writing with exceptions for audio-only consent, and must be maintained in the patient record. The rule lists minimum requirements for the informed consent statement.

Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners

Adopted Rules Re:

Adopting 22 TAC §781.102, to remove terminology that suggests the Council approves individual supervision relationships and update other rules to be consistent with the change.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
22 TAC §781.102

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.102, relating to Definitions. Section 781.102 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7836) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments update language related to supervisors to remove terminology that suggests the Council approves individual supervision relationships and to align with changes proposed in other rules.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.302, to update references to clinical and non-clinical supervision plans to align with other proposed rule changes.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER B. RULES OF PRACTICE
22 TAC §781.302

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.302, relating to The Practice of Social Work. Section 781.302 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7840) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments update rule references to clinical and non-clinical supervision plans, to align with other proposed rule changes.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.303, to require a licensee to seek consent from the client who is concurrently receiving services from another provider to contact the other provider to establish a collaborative relationship.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER B. RULES OF PRACTICE
22 TAC §781.303

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.303, relating to General Standards of Practice. Section 781.303 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7841) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments require a licensee who provides services to a client who concurrently receives services from another provider to seek consent from the client to contact the other provider and to strive to establish a collaborative relationship with that provider. The amendment also clarifies a licensee must report any knowledge of unlicensed practice.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.322, to update the rule to conform with statutory changes made to other sections in the Family Code.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER B. RULES OF PRACTICE
22 TAC §781.322

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.322, relating to Child Custody Evaluations. Section 781.322 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7843) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments conform the rule to the statutory changes made to Sections 107.104 and 107.112 of the Family Code by H.B. 2340 from the 89th Legislature, Regular Session (2025).

Adopting 22 TAC §781.401, to align the rule with statutory language and use more plain language to describe licensure requirements.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.401

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.401, relating to Qualifications for Licensure. Section 781.401 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7845) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments align the rule with statutory language and use more plain language to describe licensure requirements, including to replace the phrase “Council-approved supervisor” with the more accurate term “qualified supervisor.” The amendments also remove language related to the independent practice recognition specialty, which is proposed to be included in a new rule.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.402, to repeal the rule.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.402

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers repeals rule §781.402, relating to Clinical Supervision for LCSW and Non-Clinical Supervision for Independent Practice Recognition. Section 781.402 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7846) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted repeal removes the current rule in conjunction with proposed new rules that restructure and consolidate existing rule language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.402, to consolidate existing rule language concerning the types of supervision provided by social work licensees.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.402

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts new rule §781.402, relating to Types of Supervision. Section 781.402 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7848) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted new rule will consolidate existing rule language regarding the types of supervision provided by social work licensees. The new language makes non-substantive edits to use more plain, direct language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.403, to repeal the rule.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.403

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers repeals rule §781.403, relating to Independent Practice Recognition (Non-Clinical). Section 781.403 is repealed without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7849) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted repeal removes the current rule in conjunction with proposed new rules that restructure and consolidate existing rule language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.403, to consolidate existing rule language concerning the supervision process and other supervisor responsibilities.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.403

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts new rule §781.403, relating to Supervision Process. Section 781.403 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7850) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted new rule consolidates existing rule language regarding the supervision process and requirements supervisors must perform. The new language clarifies the type of records a supervisor must keep, including a detailed log of supervision sessions and a plan for the custody of records in the event a supervisor ceases practice. The new language requires a supervisee to notify supervisors of any pending complaints against the supervisee, and to share a copy of any remediation plan with all current and future supervisors. The new language also makes non-substantive edits to use more plain, direct language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.404, to consolidate existing rule language concerning supervisor status requirements.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.404

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.404, relating to Recognition as a Supervisor. Section 781.404 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7852) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments consolidate existing rule language regarding the requirements to hold supervisor status. The amendments clarify that a supervisor must hold a social work license issued by the Council, and adds requirements for actions a licensee must take if supervisor status is revoked or expires. Language related to types of supervision and the supervision process is proposed to move to other consolidated rules.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.405, to repeal the rule.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.405

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers repeals rule §781.405, relating to Application for Licensure. Section 781.405 is repealed without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7856) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted repeal removes the current rule in conjunction with proposed new rules that restructure and consolidate existing rule language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.405, to consolidate existing rule language concerning the clinical social worker license application process.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.405

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts new rule §781.405, relating to Clinical Supervision for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Section 781.405 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7857) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted new rule consolidates existing rule language related to applying for a clinical social worker license, including what information must be submitted to the Council with the application. The new language also clarifies how an LMSW may continue to perform clinical social work services after completing LCSW experience requirements. The new language also makes non-substantive edits to use more plain, direct language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.406, to repeal the language.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.406

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers repeals rule §781.406, relating to Required Documentation of Qualifications for Licensure. Section 781.406 is repealed without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7859) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted repeal removes the current rule in conjunction with proposed new rules that restructure and consolidate existing rule language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.406, to consolidate existing rule language concerning the independent practice recognition (IPR) specialty.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.406

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts new rule §781.406, relating to Independent Practice Recognition. Section 781.406 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7860) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted new rule consolidates existing rule language related to the independent practice recognition (IPR) specialty, including requirements to qualify for the specialty designation and qualification to supervise the experience required to earn the specialty. The new language clarifies that an LBSW or LMSW under supervision toward the IPR designation may own and operate a non-clinical practice under that supervision. The new language also makes non-substantive edits to use more plain, direct language.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.407, to consolidate existing rule language concerning prohibitions on independent social work practice.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.407

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts new rule §781.407, relating to Prohibited Independent Practice. Section 781.407 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7862) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted new rule consolidates existing rule language related to prohibitions on independent social work practice, including that an LMSW working towards an LCSW may not own or operate a private practice to provide clinical social work services. The new language expands the guidelines the Council will rely on and makes clarifying edits to better guide a determining whether independent practice is occurring.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.419, to align the Council’s rules with changes made to the Texas Occupations Code concerning the licensing of military services members, veterans, and spouses.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATION AND LICENSING
22 TAC §781.419

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.419, relating to Licensing of Military Service Members, Military Veterans, and Military Spouses. Section 781.419 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7863) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments align the Council’s rules with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55 by the 89th Legislature regarding licensing of military service members, veterans, and spouses.

Adopting 22 TAC §781.805, to adjusts the schedule of sanctions to align with other rule consolidation proposals.

CHAPTER 781. SOCIAL WORKER LICENSURE
SUBCHAPTER D. SCHEDULE OF SANCTIONS
22 TAC §781.805

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Social Workers adopts amendments to §781.805, relating to Schedule of Sanctions. Section 781.805 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 5, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 7864) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments adjusts the schedule of sanctions to align with other rule consolidation proposals.

Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists

Adopted Rules Re:

Adopting 22 TAC §801.2, to expand the category of acceptable accrediting agencies to include regional, national, and institutional accrediting bodies so long as they are recognized by CHEA, THECB, or the U.S. Department of Education.

CHAPTER 801. LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
22 TAC §801.2

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists adopts amendments to §801.2, relating to Definitions. Section 801.2 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8021) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendment would remove the term “regionally” to expand the category of acceptable accrediting agencies to include regional, national, and institutional accrediting bodies, as long as they are recognized by CHEA, THECB, or the U.S. Department of Education. The adopted amendments would also add the recently created “temporary” license to the definition of license.

Adopting 22 TAC §801.57, to conform the rule to the statutory changes made to Sections 107.104 and 107.112 of the Family Code.

CHAPTER 801. LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
SUBCHAPTER B. RULES OF PRACTICE
22 TAC §801.57

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists adopts amendments to §801.57, relating to Child Custody Evaluations. Section 801.57 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8023) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendment conform the rule to the statutory changes made to Sections 107.104 and 107.112 of the Family Code by H.B. 2340 from the 89th Legislature, Regular Session (2025).

Adopting 22 TAC §801.112, to align the requirement that all courses must receive a passing grade and be credited on an applicant’s transcript, removing the requirement that some courses receive a “B” letter grade.

CHAPTER 801. LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATIONS AND LICENSING
22 TAC §801.112

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists adopts amendments to §801.112, relating to General Academic Requirements. Section 801.112 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8025) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments remove the term “regionally” to expand the category of acceptable accrediting agencies to include regional, national, and institutional accrediting bodies, as long as they are recognized by CHEA, THECB, or the U.S. Department of Education. The adopted amendments also align the requirement that all courses must receive a passing grade and be credited on an applicant’s transcript, removing the requirement that some courses receive a “B” letter grade.

Adopting 22 TAC §801.113, to expand the category of acceptable accrediting agencies to include regional, national, and institutional accrediting bodies so long as they are recognized by CHEA, THECB, or the U.S. Department of Education.

CHAPTER 801. LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATIONS AND LICENSING
22 TAC §801.113

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists adopts amendments to §801.113, relating to Academic Requirements. Section 801.113 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8026) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments remove the term “regionally” to expand the category of acceptable accrediting agencies to include regional, national, and institutional accrediting bodies, as long as they are recognized by CHEA, THECB, or the U.S. Department of Education.

Adopting 22 TAC §801.204, to align the Council’s rules with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55 by the 89th Legislature regarding licensing of military service members, veterans, and spouses.

CHAPTER 801. LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
SUBCHAPTER C. APPLICATIONS AND LICENSING
22 TAC §801.204

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council on behalf of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists adopts amendments to §801.204, relating to Licensing of Military Service Members, Military Veterans, and Military Spouses. Section 801.204 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8028) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments align the Council’s rules with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55 by the 89th Legislature regarding licensing of military service members, veterans, and spouses.

Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council

Adopted Rules Re:

Adopting 22 TAC §881.2, to rename a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology to a School Psychologist.

CHAPTER 881. GENERAL PROVISIONS
SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
22 TAC §881.2

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council adopts amendments to §881.2, relating to Definitions. Section 881.2 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8029) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendment aligns the Council’s rules with House Bill 2598, passed by the 89th Legislature, to rename a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology to a School Psychologist.

Adopting 22 TAC §882.42, to conform the rule to the statutory changes made to Section 53.021 of the Occupations Code by S.B. 1080.

CHAPTER 882. APPLICATIONS AND LICENSING
SUBCHAPTER B. LICENSE
22 TAC §882.42

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council adopts amendments to §882.42, relating to Ineligibility Due to Criminal History. Section 882.42 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8031) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendment conforms the rule to the statutory changes made to Section 53.021 of the Occupations Code by S.B. 1080 from the 89th Legislature, Regular Session (2025).

Adopting 22 TAC §882.60, to align the Council’s rule with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55.

CHAPTER 882. APPLICATIONS AND LICENSING
SUBCHAPTER F. LICENSING PROVISIONS RELATED TO MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS, VETERANS, AND MILITARY SPOUSES
22 TAC §882.60

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council adopts amendments to §882.60, relating to Special Provisions Applying to Military Service Members, Veterans, and Spouses. Section 882.60 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8032) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments align the Council’s rule with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55 by the 89th Legislature regarding licensing of military service members, veterans, and spouses.

Adopting 22 TAC §882.61, to align the Council’s rule with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55

CHAPTER 882. APPLICATIONS AND LICENSING
SUBCHAPTER F. LICENSING PROVISIONS RELATED TO MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS, VETERANS, AND MILITARY SPOUSES
22 TAC §882.61

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council adopts amendments to §882.61, relating to Special Licensing Provisions for Service Members and Military Spouses. Section 882.61 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8034) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments align the Council’s rule with changes made to Texas Occupations Code Chapter 55 by the 89th Legislature regarding licensing of military service members, veterans, and spouses.

Adopting 22 TAC §884.11, to streamline the enforcement process and better align it with other agency rules.

CHAPTER 884. COMPLAINTS AND ENFORCEMENT
SUBCHAPTER B. INVESTIGATIONS AND DISPOSITION OF COMPLAINTS
22 TAC §884.11

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council adopts amendments to §884.11, relating to Informal Conferences. Section 884.11 is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8035) and will not be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments will streamline the enforcement process and better align it with other agency rules.

Adopting 22 TAC §885.1, to remove a prior fee schedule that has not been in effect for over two years.

CHAPTER 885. FEES
22 TAC §885.1

OVERVIEW

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council adopts amendments to §885.1, relating to Executive Council Fees. Section 885.1 is adopted with changes to the proposed text as published in the December 12, 2025, issue of the Texas Register (50 TexReg 8037) and will be republished.

BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

The adopted amendments remove a prior fee schedule that has not been in effect for over two years. The amendments also add a fee for requesting an 11″ by 14″ wall printing of a license, and conforms language to other rule changes that rename Licensed Specialists in School Psychology to School Psychologist.

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Proposed Rule Reviews Re:

Reviewing title Title 16, Part 4, to consider for readoption, revision, or repeal the chapter concerning Code Enforcement Officers, Mold Assessors and Remediators, Weather Modification, Court-Ordered Education Programs, Responsible Pet Owners, Transportation network Companies, Massage Therapy, Laser Hair Removal, Sanitarians, Behavior Analyst, and Podiatric Medicine Programs.

OVERVIEW

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (Department) filed a Notice of Intent to Review to consider for readoption, revision, or repeal the rule chapters listed below, in their entirety, under Title 16, Part 4, of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC). This review was conducted in accordance with Texas Government Code §2001.039.

Rule Chapters Under Review

The Department reviewed the following rule chapters:

Chapter 62, Code Enforcement Officers

Chapter 78, Mold Assessors and Remediators

Chapter 79, Weather Modification

Chapter 90, Court-Ordered Education Programs

Chapter 92, Responsible Pet Owners

Chapter 95, Transportation Network Companies

Chapter 117, Massage Therapy

Chapter 118, Laser Hair Removal

Chapter 119, Sanitarians

Chapter 121, Behavior Analyst

Chapter 130, Podiatric Medicine Program

Adopted Rule Reviews Re:

Adopting title Title 26, Part 1, concerning Day Activity and Health Services Requirements.

OVERVIEW

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) adopts the review of the chapter below in Title 26, Part 1, of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC):

Chapter 559, Day Activity and Health Services Requirements

In Addition Re:

Public Hearing Notice: Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) State Supported Living Centers Long Range Planning Report

This meeting will be webcast. Members of the public may attend the meeting in person at the address above or access a live stream of the meeting at https://texashhsmeetings.org/HHSWebcast. Select the tab for the Winters Public Hearing Room Live on the date and time for this meeting. A draft version of the State Supported Living Centers Long-Range Planning Report is available for viewing at the following link https://tinyurl.com/SSLClrp. Please e-mail Webcasting@hhsc.state.tx.us if you have any problems with the webcasting function.

Public Hearing Notice: State Hospital Long Range Planning Report

This meeting will be webcast. Members of the public may attend the meeting in person at the address above or access a live stream of the meeting at https://texashhsmeetings.org/HHSWebcast. Select the tab for the Winters Public Hearing Room Live on the date and time for this meeting. A draft version of the State Hospital Long-Range Planning Report is available for viewing at the following link https://www.tinyurl.com/StateHospitalLRP. Please e-mail Webcasting@hhsc.state.tx.us if you have any problems with the webcasting function.

Texas Department of State Health Services

In Addition Re:

Licensing Actions for Radioactive Materials

For more information, please visit this week’s edition of the Texas Register at 51 Tex Reg 1748.

Amendment to the Texas Schedules of Controlled Substances

For more information, please visit this week’s edition of the Texas Register at 51 Tex Reg 1755.