The measure would require employers to give workers paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water and training on how to respond to symptoms of heat illness.

The plumbers were using a gasoline-powered saw to cut through concrete when they were overcome by carbon monoxide gas emitted from the equipment, causing one of the workers to lose consciousness. 

The proposal is subject to a 60-day public comment period, after which the department can issue the final rule, which could occur as soon as this fall.

Order allows the board to continue its operations through May 31, 2021, giving the 87th legislature time to address the matter. 

Texas’ state plumbing code is currently on track to cease to exist on Sept. 1, while the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners will have a “wind down” period that has it wrapping up operations by September 2020.

Concerned plumbers want governor to call for a special session to implement state plumbing regulation before the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners is abolished.

'We do not want to see a well-regulated industry be subject to deregulation and thereby, put the health and safety of Texas citizens at risk.'

"We've got this," the governor tells plumbers worried as their profession faces deregulation.

Plumbers call for special session after the Texas House ended the state plumbing code and a plumbing regulation agency.

Lawmakers want to fold the board into the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, an agency that oversees more than two dozen professions.