Committee advances bill allowing master commissioners and auctioneers to negotiate commissions

House Standing Committee on Licensing and Occupations members advanced House Bill 566, a targeted change designed to let master commissioners and auctioneers negotiate commission arrangements for court-ordered sales.

Sponsor Speaker Pro Tim "David me" told the committee the measure is "a very easy bill, a very simple bill," describing it as permissive and intended to align statute with contemporary auction practice. "Several years ago, we allowed master commissioners and auctioneers work together on master commissioner sales," he said, adding that existing commission schedules in statute had been "very restrictive." The sponsor said the bill leaves commission levels negotiable between the master commissioner and auctioneer.

Representative Gentry asked why the allowable commission ceiling appears to increase from 6% to 10%. The sponsor responded that "today, auctioneers are typically charging between 10 to 15% on each sale. And so, we're just bringing them more in line," and reiterated that the fee remains negotiable.

The clerk called the roll after discussion. Chairman Cook reported the committee vote as 18 yes and two members who 'passed.' "House Bill 566 passes on a vote of 18 yes, two passes," he said, and indicated the bill will be scheduled for consideration on the House floor.

The committee record shows no amendments were adopted during this session and committee leadership signaled no immediate changes to the bill's permissive structure. Next steps: HB 566 is expected to appear on the House floor for further consideration.