The Texas Commission on Fire Protection (the commission) proposes the repeal of Chapter 429, Minimum Standards For Fire Inspector Certification, concerning §429.201, Minimum Standards for Fire Inspector Personnel, §429.203, Minimum Standards for Basic Fire Inspector Certification, §429.205, Minimum Standards for Intermediate Fire Inspector Certification, §429.207, Minimum Standards for Advanced Fire Inspector Certification, §429.209, Minimum Standards for Master Fire Inspector Certification, and §429.211, International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) Seal.

The purpose of the proposed repeal is to establish a new Chapter 429, Fire Inspector, that creates distinct certifications for Fire Inspector I and Fire Inspector II/Plan Examiner I. The change follows the guidelines set forth in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard applicable to Fire Inspector. The new chapter will consist of Subchapter A, Minimum Standards For Fire Inspector I Certification, and Subchapter B, Minimum Standards For Fire Inspector II/Plan Examiner I Certification. Subchapter B will consist primarily of current rule language with some modifications.

Tim Rutland, Executive Director, has determined that for each year of the first five year period the proposed repeal is in effect, there will be no significant fiscal impact to state government or local governments.

Mr. Rutland has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit from the passage is clear and concise rules that will offer two separate certifications for Fire Inspector which has been requested by constituents. There will be no effect on micro or small businesses or persons required to comply with the repeal as proposed.

Comments regarding the proposed repeal may be submitted, in writing, within 30 days following the publication of this notice in the Texas Register to Tim Rutland, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Fire Protection, P.O. Box 2286, Austin, Texas 78768 or e-mailed to info@tcfp.texas.gov. Comments will be reviewed and discussed at a future commission meeting.

The repeal is proposed under Texas Government Code, Chapter 419, §419.008, which provides the commission the authority to propose rules for the administration of its powers and duties; §419.032 which allows the commission to appoint fire protection personnel.

The proposed repeal implements Texas Government Code, Chapter 419, §419.008 and §419.032.