Relating to certain program and reporting duties of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
Impact
The passage of HB 3429 is expected to provide a structured framework for the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, ensuring that they not only administer relevant educational programs but also report their findings and activities to key state agencies and the legislature. These requirements aim to foster transparency and facilitate interagency collaboration, ultimately promising to enhance the effectiveness of programs aimed at improving nutritional education among vulnerable populations. By mandating reports every even-numbered year, the bill seeks to keep stakeholders informed and involved in addressing nutrition-related challenges facing the community.
Summary
House Bill 3429 aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Texas Agricultural Extension Service by formalizing certain program and reporting duties. This legislation introduces Subchapter C-1 within Chapter 88 of the Education Code, defining the scope of the extension service and outlining specific programs it must administer. The bill emphasizes the administration of essential educational programs, such as the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and the Better Living for Texans (BLT) program, which is aligned with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These programs seek to educate economically disadvantaged families about nutrition, meal planning, and food safety practices.
Contention
One potential area of contention surrounding HB 3429 could stem from the extent of the extension service's responsibilities in administering and reporting on these programs. Stakeholders might debate the adequacy of funding and resources necessary to achieve the bill's goals, particularly in terms of ensuring comprehensive outreach to economically disadvantaged populations. Additionally, discussions may arise concerning the evaluation criteria and methodologies used in program reporting, as stakeholders might have varying opinions on effectiveness measurement and accountability, particularly regarding public dollars spent on these initiatives.
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 school health and related services program, including parental consent for program services, the establishment of a school health and related services program advisory council, and the publication of the School Health and Related Services (SHARS) Handbook portion of the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual.
Relating to local mental health authority and local behavioral health authority audits and mental and behavioral health reporting, services, and programs.
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 credit services organizations and extensions of consumer credit facilitated by credit services organizations; increasing a criminal penalty.