Relating to the functions and operations of the Department of Aging and Disability Services; increasing penalties.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2699 will likely lead to stricter enforcement of existing health and safety regulations and provide clearer guidelines for both the Department of Aging and Disability Services and the facilities it oversees. The introduction of increasing penalties for repeated offenses aims to enhance accountability among service providers, thereby potentially improving the quality of care for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, the implementation of such progressive sanctions may address concerns regarding the inconsistent application of penalties currently observed in the system.
Summary
House Bill 2699 seeks to reform the regulations governing the Department of Aging and Disability Services in Texas. The bill emphasizes the implementation of a matrix of progressive sanctions that would guide the imposition of penalties for violations related to health and safety standards in facilities serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The aim is to ensure that penalties are appropriate, fair, and reflective of the seriousness and frequency of violations. This framework is intended to deter future infractions and improve overall care quality in these facilities.
Contention
While proponents argue that HB 2699 provides necessary reforms to protect vulnerable populations, detractors may raise concerns regarding the cost implications for facilities that could arise from increased penalties and the administrative burden associated with compliance. Some advocates fear that the focus on punitive measures could overshadow the essential goal of providing supportive and rehabilitative services to those in need. Additionally, the need for an advisory committee to evaluate day habilitation services may provoke dialogue about potential adequacy and fairness in the regulation process.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to certain administrative penalties and procedures associated with aging, community-based, and long-term care service providers and the establishment of a task force to study certain rules and policies related to those services.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.
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 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 regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Relating to public school accountability, including the intervention in and sanction of a public school that has received an academically unsuccessful performance rating for at least two consecutive school years and the designation of a school district as a district of innovation.