Texas Senate Bill SB1528

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to prevention and early intervention services by the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The bill modifies Section 265.007 of the Family Code to include directives for DFPS to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including state and local agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations. It mandates the development of strategic plans based on community feedback, encouraging the involvement of diverse sectors, such as education, law enforcement, and healthcare, to create a comprehensive network of support. This could potentially lead to a more effective framework for service delivery, bridging gaps that have historically existed in addressing child welfare across the state.

Summary

SB1528 aims to enhance the delivery of prevention and early intervention services administered by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in Texas. The legislation is primarily focused on children experiencing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which include abuse, neglect, and family violence. By emphasizing a community-based approach, the bill seeks to allocate taxpayer dollars more efficiently while ensuring that vulnerable children receive necessary support services in a timely manner. A key goal is to identify geographic areas that lack these crucial services and prioritize their development where they are most needed.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1528 include discussions about resource allocation and stakeholder engagement. Proponents argue that the bill's community-driven strategy will produce better outcomes for children by fostering collaboration among service providers. However, critics may raise concerns about the effectiveness of relying on community input and the potential for insufficient funding to execute the outlined strategies comprehensively. Furthermore, the bill's implementation will require careful monitoring to ensure that it adequately addresses the needs of the most affected families and communities.