Sos Coding, short for Secretary of State coding, refers to the system used to organize and categorize the Texas Administrative Code (TAC). The TAC comprises all state agency rules in Texas, divided into 17 titles by subject category. Each title includes rules from related state agencies.
Navigating the Complexity of SOS Coding
The Texas Legislature established the TAC in 1977 under the Administrative Code Act (Government Code, 2002.051-2002.056). This act mandates the Texas Secretary of State to compile, index, and publish the TAC, ensuring accessibility to the public. This process, often referred to as SOS coding, involves meticulous organization and categorization of vast amounts of regulatory information.
The foundation for SOS coding was laid in 1975 with the Administrative Procedure and Texas Register Act (Government Code, 2001 and 2002). This act initiated the systematic organization and dissemination of state agency rules, paving the way for the comprehensive TAC.
Evolution of Access to SOS Coding
Initially, the TAC was available in print format. The Secretary of State contracted with public entities for publication as directed by the Administrative Code Act. However, with advancements in technology, demand for digital access increased.
In 1995, the Texas Legislature passed HB 2304, authorizing the Secretary of State to provide online access to the TAC and charge for enhanced web services. This legislation significantly improved accessibility to SOS coding.
Critically, HB 2304 also mandated free online access to the TAC. This complimentary access, facilitated through a dedicated viewing platform (View TAC), ensures that anyone can readily access the information organized via SOS coding.
SOS Coding: A Cornerstone of Transparency
The meticulous organization and free online accessibility of the TAC, thanks to SOS coding, ensures transparency in Texas state government operations. This allows citizens and businesses to easily understand and comply with state regulations. The ongoing efforts to maintain and update the TAC demonstrate a commitment to open government and accessible information. The TAC, and the SOS coding system behind it, serves as a vital resource for navigating the complexities of Texas state regulations.
