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Licensing advisory committee reviews licensing data, A-List rollout, SOP workshop and Rapid DNA plans
Summary
Committee heard staff report that the commission now lists about 1,390 licensees and is rolling out a new A-List application system, reviewed an SOP-writing workshop that produced draft SOPs, and received an update from the Rapid DNA working group on operator training, MOUs and pilot plans.
At its April 2026 meeting, the Licensing Advisory Committee received updates across several operational topics, including licensing metrics, a new application platform, SOP development, Rapid DNA planning, exam modernization, and an apprenticeship pilot.
Licensing metrics and A-List
Staff member reported licensing data and the new A-List application system: "Total current licensees is 1,390," staff said, adding that the commission issued 14 new licenses last quarter and 76 new licenses so far in the fiscal year. Staff described 247 "de minimis" technician-type licenses and said forensic biology is the largest discipline with roughly 450 licensees. The committee discussed how A-List should streamline applications and noted staff will keep incorporating user feedback as developers remain engaged.
SOP guidance and training
Members and staff reviewed an SOP-writing course hosted March 30–April 2 that had nine attendees who drafted SOPs for review. Committee members lauded the workshop format and discussed follow-up offerings; staff agreed to provide a letter of support for participants upon request and to continue reviewing submitted SOPs.
Rapid DNA working group
The Rapid DNA working group is developing guidance on what sample types are appropriate for rapid instruments, a Texas template memorandum of understanding between laboratories and law enforcement, and operator licensing considerations. Committee discussion leaned toward aligning operator qualifications with crime-scene analyst licensure while keeping specific rapid-operator training as an additional module. The Department of Public Safety was identified as a likely pilot agency to host MOUs and lead training development.
Exam modernization and apprenticeship pilot
Staff briefed the committee on work with psychometricians (ACS Ventures) to align study materials and objectives for a revised seven-domain licensing exam with an aspirational January 2027 launch. The committee also received an update on the Texas Forensic Analyst Apprenticeship Pilot Program (TFAAPP), which is focusing initial resources on drugs, toxicology and bio and is soliciting lab interest via questionnaires to determine demand for the 18 initial apprenticeship slots.
Meeting business and next steps
The committee approved routine motions to excuse absent members, adopt minutes, and schedule future meetings through July 2027. No public comments were recorded. Several items will return to future agendas for further drafting or vetting by the full commission.
Ending
Staff will continue system rollout, review submitted SOPs, finalize psychometric materials with ACS Ventures, and prepare the recommended rule proposal on the firearms-experience waiver for the full commission’s consideration.
