Texas House Bill HB35

Texas 2023 - 88th 3rd C.S.

• Filed: 10/6/23

Caption

Relating to the Department of Family and Protective Services' annual report of key performance measures and data elements for child protection; authorizing a penalty.

Impact

The impacts of HB 35 are significant for state laws concerning child protection. The bill places a strong emphasis on regular oversight and assessment of the DFPS's performance, which could lead to more informed policy making and potential reforms in child welfare services. Furthermore, the introduction of a penalty for late reports could incentivize timeliness and accuracy in data reporting, thereby improving accountability within the department. This increased scrutiny is expected to help identify areas needing improvement and enhance the overall quality of care for children in the system.

Summary

House Bill 35 aims to enhance the accountability and transparency of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by mandating the annual report of key performance measures and data elements in relation to child protection. The bill outlines specific data points that the DFPS must include in its report, such as the number and result of child abuse reports, services provided to clients, and the status of children in the department's conservatorship. By requiring this comprehensive reporting, the bill seeks to inform lawmakers and the public about the effectiveness and challenges within the state's child protection system.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 35 appears largely positive, especially among advocates for child welfare and transparency in government. Supporters believe that this legislation is a necessary step towards holding the DFPS accountable for its actions and ensuring that children in the state's custody receive adequate care and protection. However, there may be apprehensions from within the DFPS and among some legislators about the additional reporting requirements and potential penalties, fearing it could strain resources or lead to defensive reporting rather than a focus on improvement.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB 35 is the potential burden it places on the DFPS in terms of data collection and reporting. Some stakeholders express concerns that the requirements may divert attention and resources away from direct services to children and families. Moreover, discussions around the specifics of the data included in the report highlight differences in opinion on what metrics are most important for assessing child welfare. This aspect of the debate underscores a deeper issue about how best to measure and ensure child safety and wellbeing in the state.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

• Chapter 264. Child Welfare Services
  • Section: 017