Relating to the expansion of faith- and community-based health and human services and social services initiatives.
Impact
If enacted, HB492 would require the establishment of a system for volunteer opportunities related to these initiatives, creating a searchable database that the state would manage. This database aims to promote volunteer engagement by connecting potential volunteers with local community and faith-based organizations, thus fostering a spirit of community service across Texas. The collaboration would also seek to empower local organizations, helping them build their capacity to deliver effective services.
Summary
House Bill 492 aims to expand faith- and community-based health and human services initiatives, reflecting the legislative intent to strengthen partnerships between these organizations and the state government. The bill establishes a framework for a comprehensive approach to enhancing charitable and social service delivery through the designation of liaisons within state agencies. These liaisons would facilitate collaboration and support for community organizations in navigating state services and resources.
Contention
The bill faces potential debates surrounding the implications of intertwining faith-based initiatives with state social services. Critics may express concerns about maintaining a separation between government and religion, even as the text of the bill explicitly states that it does not endorse any religious beliefs or practices. Moreover, stakeholders may question how the bill's implementation will ensure equitable access to services without favoring specific religious organizations over secular ones.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.
Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Relating to certain procedures in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship for a child placed in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the provision of family preservation services and community-based foster care.
Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Information Resources and certain procurement functions of the comptroller of public accounts.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Information Resources and certain procurement functions of the comptroller of public accounts.