The plan dedicates a full page to TDLR’s modernization process under the “New Licensing System, New Business Practices” heading. The 88th Legislature appropriated $32.9 million for a modern, comprehensive licensing system.
Action items for the modernization goal are listed as evaluating the “best available options,” awarding the contract, partnering with the chosen vendor and requesting additional funds.
The modernization has the goal of supporting statewide objectives with an enhanced user experience — both internal and external — by increasing security, simplifying processes, shortening the application and licensing timeline, improving navigation and improving information finding.
The February Request for Offer (RFO) No. 452-24-BLC010, Legacy Systems Replacement, is an 83-page document taking a deep dive into the project’s scope and department business needs.
The original date for vendor selection was set for later this month, but the RFO closed with no award, the agency confirmed via email. It will be reissued.
LICENSING ACTIVITY
Over the years, the need for licensing has grown, but coupled with that is TDLR’s absorption of licensing previously handled elsewhere.
Today, it is the primary occupational licensing system in 38 programs and has temporary oversight of the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (TBVME), also with IT modernization needs.
Since 2015, it has taken on 25 programs including dietitians, midwives, those performing laser hair removal, behavior analysts, podiatrists and — in 2023 — electric vehicle charging stations. Consistently taking on programs has led to disparate systems and databases.
TECH MILESTONES
The strategic plan highlighted the following milestones for the agency:
- Legacy modernization
- Vendor performed market analysis
- Information gathering with other agencies, states and vendors
- Procurement expert hired for RFO process
- RFO released
- Collaborative planning for TBVME updates and upgrades
- New website launched
- E-inspections app implementation
- Various online enhancements for licensees
STAFFING
The agency has 591 budgeted full-time positions but only about 510 positions filled. Multiple factors leading to a staff shortage include lower-than-market salaries, more competitive benefits and flexible work elsewhere, Austin’s cost of living and a remote/hybrid work expectation.
In part, the agency is still recovering from pandemic-related budget and staff cuts and will ask for funds to be restored.
