The construction industry in Texas has been impacted by several new state laws, including the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act H.B 2127, which removes required breaks for workers, and The Texas Jobs and Security Act, which aims to improve job opportunities in the state. Additionally, H.B. 14 and the third-party reviews, S.B. 7, S.B. 2012 & 2015, and S.B. 1287 have also significantly impacted the construction industry in Texas.
First, let's start with the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act H.B 2127. This law, which went into effect on September 1, 2019, removes required breaks for construction, manufacturing, and transportation workers. This means employers no longer need to provide rest breaks or meal periods to their workers, although they may still choose to do so.
The impact of this law on the construction industry has been significant. Workers in the construction industry often work long hours in physically demanding jobs, and the lack of required breaks can seriously affect their health and safety, especially in Hot, Humid areas such as Texas. Just recently, a lineman who had come to assist in disaster relief in Texas lost his life from a heat-related illness. It is expected that this law will cause more weather-related deaths. In addition, without breaks, workers may become fatigued, which can lead to work-related accidents.
However, supporters of the law argue that it will benefit the construction industry by reducing the regulatory burden on employers, allowing them to be more competitive and create more jobs. They also say that it gives workers the flexibility to take breaks when needed rather than being forced to adhere to a strict schedule. The mandated 10-minute intervals were a lifesaver when they were implemented.
Unfortunately, there will be employers will be willing to sacrifice workers' lives and health to make a dollar.
Moving on, The Texas Jobs and Security Act is another law that has significantly impacted the construction industry in Texas. This law, signed into law in June 2019, aims to improve job opportunities in the state by incentivizing companies that create jobs in Texas.
The impact of this law on the construction industry has been positive, as it has led to increased investment and job growth in the state. This has resulted in more construction projects and opportunities for construction workers in Texas.
H.B. 14 and third-party reviews are also essential laws that have impacted the construction industry in Texas. H.B. 14, which went into effect on September 1, 2019, requires that all construction projects in the state undergo periodic third-party reviews to ensure that they comply with building codes and safety standards.
The impact of this law on the construction industry has been positive, as it has helped to ensure that construction projects in Texas are safe and up to code. This has resulted in increased confidence in the construction industry and more opportunities for construction workers in the state.
Finally, S.B. 7, S.B. 2012 & 2015, and S.B. 1287 have also had significant impacts on the construction industry in Texas. These laws aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the state's construction industry by reducing regulatory barriers and streamlining the permitting process.
The impact of some of these laws has been positive, as they have helped to make it easier for construction projects to be completed in Texas. This has resulted in more opportunities for construction workers in the state and increased investment in the construction industry. Unfortunately at least one of these laws may impact workers negatively impacting both safety and health.
We will soon find out if the impacts of these new laws will be positive or negative for our industries.
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