San Antonio Meeting Marks Notable Success for TSBPE’s Townhall Initiative
San Antonio Meeting Marks Notable Success for TSBPE’s Townhall Initiative
Community Engagement Soars as Over 200 Plumbers and Plumbing Industry Staff Converge at TSBPE’s Latest Townhall Event
SAN ANTONIO, TX, March 6, 2024 – The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) welcomed a significant turnout at its latest Townhall meeting in San Antonio, with well over 200 industry professionals in attendance. Hosted by the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of San Antonio and the Mechanical & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (MCA-SMACNA) of San Antonio, the event stands as the most attended TSBPE Townhall Meeting thus far.
Frank S. Denton, Chairman of the TSBPE, shared his thoughts on the meeting’s impact: “We had a great time in San Antonio. The level of engagement and the incredible turnout tells us that our community outreach efforts are headed in the right direction.”
That “incredible turnout” was noteworthy not just for its size, but also for its role diversity. Apprentices, Responsible Master Plumbers (RMPs), inspectors, continuing education and career high school administrators from all over the greater San Antonio region engaged in dialogues about the plumbing industry’s current policies and future direction. Topics covered included agency statistical information, its evolving examination policies and processes, artificial intelligence and the TSBPE’s new “Ask Kevin” tool, as well as the usual friendly pushback and grievance airing befitting the event’s true Townhall meeting-style setting.
Heidi Trimble, Executive Director of PHCC San Antonio, commented on the event’s atmosphere, “PHCC was very happy to provide our members and the San Antonio community at large the opportunity for open discussion with their regulatory body. And the turnout exceeded our expectations on every level.”
Mr. Denton’s introduction of the 2-hour long session was followed by TSBPE Executive Director Lisa Hill’s presentation of practical information related to agency statistics and policies. Ms. Hill’s portion covered everything from the raw numbers of licensees in Texas to the TSBPE’s new self-scheduling option, a feature licensed plumbers and inspectors have been requesting for years. At the conclusion of Ms. Hill’s portion, Mr. Denton joined her for the event’s Q and A section in which attendees were told “no topic is off limits.” The candid discussion that followed emphasized the TSBPE’s dedication to transparency and helped attendees parse through the significant noise and hearsay that inevitably challenges an industry with more than 70k licensees.
“Our aim for these Townhall meetings is to ensure that we remain approachable and responsive to the industry we serve,” said TSBPE Executive Director Lisa Hill. “We achieved that goal in San Antonio and are looking forward to communicating the same message at future Townhalls.”
The TSBPE’s Townhall Series has several more cities slated for events in 2024, including upcoming trips to Lubbock, Amarillo and Beaumont, Texas. More information is available on the Townhall Meeting Series page on the TSBPE’s website: tsbpe.texas.gov/townhallmeetings/
How-to Apply For and Take an Exam with the TSBPE (Includes Self-Scheduling)
How-to Apply For and Take an Exam with the TSBPE (Includes Self-Scheduling)
When it comes to applying for an exam with the TSBPE, a lot has changed in the past couple years. Exam wait times have decreased, a new testing center has been added, and you can finally schedule your own test (!). This next installment in our How-To series seeks to take some of the complication out and give you a clear, step-by-step reference for whatever exam you’re taking with the TSBPE. Download a printable version of this How-To here.
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Frosty Forecast? Protect Your Home with Licensed Texas Plumbers
With cold weather on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re choosing a licensed plumber for your needs. Hiring a licensed professional not only guarantees they’ve met specific standards, but it also means they’re accountable to our state regulatory board.
To better prepare for the impending cold weather, consider utilizing our downloadable Responsible Master Plumber (RMP) Spreadsheet. This list contains comprehensive information about Responsible Master Plumbers (RMPs) and their associated companies:
- Access The RMP Spreadsheet: Click here to access the downloadable RMP spreadsheet.
- Download the File: Click on the link to download the file. It’s available in .csv format, compatible with any spreadsheet program.
- Search Within the Spreadsheet: Use your spreadsheet program’s search function (usually Ctrl+F or Command+F) to find plumbing companies in your area.
Additionally, individuals employed by plumbing companies can be found using the TSBPE’s Public License Search:
- Access The Public License Search: Click here to access the Public License Search tool.
- Search by Location: Select “Search by Location” from the drop-down menu. Enter your city or zip code, and you’ll see a list of licensed plumbers in your area.
- Review License Details: Click on a plumber’s name to view their license details, including their license type and status. This information can help you determine if the plumber is qualified for your specific cold weather concerns.
- Check Disciplinary History: You have the option to review the disciplinary history of any licensee, which could influence your hiring decision.
Please note: while the TSBPE recommends obtaining bids for plumbing projects, we understand that emergencies might necessitate immediate action. Be aware that the TSBPE doesn’t regulate the pricing of plumbing services, which can result in different hourly rates and pricing strategies across individual plumbers and firms. However, we do require that all plumbers and plumbing companies provide accurate portrayals of their prices and services. Should you need our assistance, we encourage you to email our Enforcement department: complaints@tsbpe.texas.gov.
As we prepare for the cold weather and the new year, we at TSBPE want to wish you a warm and Happy New Year!
TSBPE Clamps Down on Unlicensed Plumbing
45% of Disciplinary Actions Targeted the Illegal Practice in Fiscal Year 2023.
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) is pleased to announce significant progress in combatting unlicensed and other illegal plumbing activities for Fiscal Year 2023. Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to industry regulations and public safety, the TSBPE’s Enforcement Division conducted a notable total of 646 investigations during Fiscal Year 2023.
Steve Davis, the TSBPE’s Director of Enforcement, offered a closer look at the year’s Enforcement strategies: “Our team is focusing significant effort on curbing unlicensed plumbing practices throughout Texas. In FY 2023, we executed a total of 292 enforcement actions against unlicensed individuals including 189 agreed orders and 103 cease and desist letters—that’s nearly 50% of our total enforcement activity aimed directly at unlicensed plumbing.”
Lisa G. Hill, Executive Director of the TSBPE, commented on the year’s achievements: “Our approach this year as it has been every year is about ensuring the health and safety of Texans. The significant number of investigations and our targeted efforts against unlicensed activities highlight our dedication to maintaining high standards in the plumbing industry.”
Building on the significant achievements in tackling unlicensed activity in 2023, the TSBPE is poised for an even more impactful year ahead. The groundwork laid by this year’s enforcement actions has set the stage for a 2024 agenda with broader initiatives aimed at further suppressing illegal plumbing practices.
The TSBPE’s Enforcement Division’s performance in fiscal year 2023 serves as assurance to lawmakers and the public at large that the TSBPE remains committed to maintaining a safe and reliable plumbing infrastructure in Texas. The Enforcement team’s success is a testament to that commitment and serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of continued support and investment in the regulation of the plumbing trade in Texas.
TSBPE Achieves Over 50% Growth in Plumbing Examinations Conducted from Fiscal Year 2022 to Fiscal Year 2023
Dramatic Increase in Exam Capacity is a Direct Response to Public Feedback and Legislative Mandate.
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) proudly announces a remarkable achievement in its examination and licensure program for fiscal year 2023. Building on public feedback and directives from the 88th Texas Legislature, the TSBPE has dramatically increased the number of written and practical examinations conducted, alongside an impressive rise in pass rates.
In fiscal year 2022, the TSBPE administered 4,963 examinations with a 70% pass rate. In a striking advancement, fiscal year 2023 saw this number soar to 9,616 examinations, accompanied by an enhanced pass rate of 72.3%. This growth is a direct response to the public’s need for more qualified plumbers and the legislative mandate to strengthen the plumbing industry in Texas.
TSBPE Board Chair Frank S. Denton reflects on these milestones, saying, “The progress we’ve made this past year is a testament to our commitment to elevating the plumbing profession in Texas. By listening to public feedback and adhering to the legislative mandate, we’ve not only increased our examination capacity but also enhanced the quality of our licensure process. This success signifies our dedication to ensuring the highest standards in plumbing services for the people of Texas.”
A significant factor in this achievement is the opening of the TSBPE’s Exam Center in Waco, a venture made possible through a collaborative partnership with Texas State Technical College (TSTC).
TSTC Chancellor Mike Reeser commends this effort, stating, “Our inter-agency efforts have been a model for how government in Texas can get stuff done by working together. Our common mission of supplying a high-quality workforce made it a possibility, but the TSBPE’s willingness to work together toward tangible results was the secret weapon in achieving a meaningful outcome. We’re making a difference statewide!”
Another pivotal development contributing to this success is the implementation of Computer-Based Testing with partner, Pearson VUE. This initiative has expanded the availability of TSBPE examinations to more than 60 testing centers across Texas, significantly increasing accessibility for aspiring plumbers.
The TSBPE remains dedicated to its mission of protecting the health and safety of Texans by ensuring the integrity and proficiency of licensed plumbers. These achievements mark a significant stride towards a future where every Texan can trust in the quality and reliability of plumbing services in our great state.
How-to Submit Fingerprints When you can’t get to IdentoGO
Homebound people or anyone who lives too far away from an IdentoGO can opt to have their fingerprints taken the old-fashioned way with ink on a paper card and then sent via mail to IdentoGO. Download a printable version of this How-To Guide here.
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Health and Safety Advisory: Flu Season Precautions
As we approach the flu season, the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners prioritizes the well-being and health of our candidates, staff, and community. We encourage everyone to exercise caution and use common sense to ensure a safe environment for all.
Protect Yourself and Others
- Frequent Handwashing: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow to cover your mouth and nose. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local health advisories and flu season alerts.
Feeling Unwell? Please Stay Home
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms or feeling under the weather, we urge you to prioritize your health and the health of others. If you’re scheduled for an exam and are not feeling well:
- Do Not Come to the Exam Center.
- Reschedule your exam for a later date. Our team will assist you in making the necessary arrangements.
- If you have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for the flu or any contagious illness, please follow local health guidelines and postponing your exam.
Your health and safety come first. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Warm regards,
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners Team
Welcome To The Refreshed Texas State Board Of Plumbing Examiners Website!
We are excited to announce the launch of our completely revitalized website! As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring the Texas plumbing community has easy access to essential information, we’ve made a series of updates to improve your online experience.
What’s New:
- Updated Look & Feel: The new site features new fonts, vibrant colors, and an enhanced layout. Our aim was to make the website not only more attractive but also more intuitive.
- Persistent UI Navigation: No matter where you find yourself on our site, our user interface stays consistent. This makes navigation simpler and quicker, saving you time and reducing any potential frustration.
- New Contact Page: We’ve added a contact form to the contact page that will help streamline email communication with the TSBPE.
- New Board Meeting Video Archive Page: The TSBPE website now includes archived videos of all Board meetings held since we began broadcasting them online in 2020
- Streamlined Content: We’ve made the conscious effort to declutter our site by removing outdated pages and information. Now, everything you find here is relevant and up-to-date, ensuring you have the best resources at your fingertips.
Coming Soon:
Now that the new site is operational, we’re not stopping here. We’ve got some exciting new features planned that are designed to further assist and empower our plumbing community.
On behalf of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, thank you for your continued support and trust.
Warm regards,
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners Staff
How-to Make Sure You’re Caught up on Annual Continuing Education
Meeting your annual CP requirement may seem tricky. We’ve boiled the system down into an easy to remember formula so you always know what course(s) to take. Download a printable version of this How-To Guide here.