Texas House Bill HB3334

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to monetary assistance provided by the Department of Family and Protective Services to certain relatives and designated caregivers.

Impact

The impact of HB3334 extends to the support mechanisms in place for relatives and designated caregivers who take in children from the foster care system. By stipulating a clear financial support structure, the bill aims to alleviate immediate financial strains on caregivers, potentially resulting in more stable placements for children in need. The provision for ongoing reimbursement every six months further supports the financial sustainability of these placements, allowing caregivers to request reimbursement for specific expenses related to the child's care.

Summary

House Bill 3334 focuses on enhancing monetary assistance provided by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to certain relatives and designated caregivers. The bill amends Section 264.755 of the Family Code to include provisions for a one-time cash payment to caregivers upon the initial placement of a child or sibling group, with a maximum payment amount set at $1,000 per child. This cash payment is designed to assist caregivers with essential expenses such as clothing and furniture for the child.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from discussions surrounding the adequacy of the proposed financial assistance relative to the actual costs incurred by caregivers. Critics may argue that while the initial cash payment provides some relief, the ongoing reimbursement framework may not fully cover the comprehensive costs associated with raising a child. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the bill's effective implementation and whether it adequately addresses the diverse needs of various caregivers across different regions of Texas.