Texas Senate Bill SB1955

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a pilot program to identify and refer eligible children to early childhood intervention services.

Impact

The implementation of SB1955 is intended to enhance early identification of children who may require intervention services, thereby potentially improving long-term developmental outcomes. By operating through a familiar 2-1-1 human services number, the bill ensures that access to developmental screenings is streamlined for families, which could lead to increased referrals to necessary services. This program is particularly relevant in regions experiencing a reduction in early childhood service providers, directly addressing the service gap for vulnerable populations.

Summary

SB1955, entitled 'Relating to a pilot program to identify and refer eligible children to early childhood intervention services', aims to establish a developmental screening initiative through a 2-1-1 operator system. This program targets children under three years of age, facilitating developmental screenings for those whose guardians consent. If a screening indicates that a child is at moderate to high risk of developmental delay, the operator refers the child to the early childhood intervention program, which is designed to assist eligible children with developmental issues.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, SB1955 may face scrutiny around its efficacy and sustainability. Concerns could arise regarding the adequacy of training and support for the 2-1-1 operators, as well as the potential for inconsistencies in service delivery across different regions. Additionally, questions about funding and resource allocation might lead to debates about the bill's feasibility, prompting advocates and opponents to discuss the strategic prioritization of child health services within the broader legislative agenda.