What's this? Do I see Take Back Your Rights in the Texas Residential Construction Commission's Texas Star Builder program?

During a recent Frisco City Council work session regarding two proposed charter amendments, the primary rhetoric from builders, their insurance representatives and the council was that bonding was neither available, nor affordable. I wonder if any of these experts have noticed a prominent section of HB 730 that describes the Texas Star Builder program? This voluntary program not only requires a builder to be knowledgeable, but also to show proof of financial responsibility in the form of liability insurance.

Since this bill was partially authored by the attorney of a prominent Houston builder/generous campaign donor, it must be feasible. The state wouldn't waste time passing a bill that was neither attainable nor enforceable; however, that is exactly what Take Back Your Rights is accused of doing in Frisco.

Would you trust your brain surgery to a surgeon who did not have malpractice insurance? I think not. However, the largest purchase of a lifetime is unsecured in Texas. The loss of your home due to shoddy construction can and does ruin lives, just as the slip of a surgeon's knife can do. The difference is that in the latter case, you have access to the court system.

The minimum standard for a builder in Texas should be the Star program, with assurances of a well-built home to all Texans. The ever-increasing decline of work ethics and honesty in business is affecting all citizens and causing costs to skyrocket. It's time to start taking responsibility for what we do in this world, and as consumers, we have to demand accountability in business and our government.

Jo Hayman, Plano