Texas House Bill HB2080

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to family partners, family partner peer support services, and the provision of those services under the medical assistance program.

Impact

The bill amends the Government Code and the Human Resources Code to formally integrate family partner services into the medical treatment framework for children experiencing serious emotional disturbances. This integration is particularly notable as it reinforces the value of peer support in mental health treatment, aiming to improve access and outcomes for children facing such challenges. By creating structured pathways for training and certification, HB2080 ensures that family partners are qualified, ultimately leading to more effective support for families navigating mental health issues.

Summary

House Bill 2080 is focused on the establishment and regulation of family partners and their peer support services, specifically under the state's medical assistance program. This legislation empowers family partners, who are individuals with lived experience providing support to families or caregivers of children with mental health disorders. HB2080 mandates the development of rules that establish certification, training, and supervision for these family partners, highlighting the significant role they play in the mental health support system for children. The inclusion of family partner peer support services in the medical assistance program reflects a shift towards community-based support structures.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from mental health advocates who see the benefits of peer-led support, the establishment of formal rules surrounding certification and training may create concerns regarding the regulatory burden placed on family partners. There are discussions about the balance between necessary oversight and the flexibility needed to effectively support families, as some stakeholders worry that excessive regulation might deter individuals from becoming family partners. The requirement for a state agency to seek federal waivers for some provisions has also sparked debates about the potential delays and complications that may arise in implementing key elements of the bill.