Relating to information included in reports on caseloads for child protective services caseworkers.
Impact
The modifications proposed in HB 696 are intended to improve the management and transparency of the child welfare system by providing more detailed insights into CPS operations. By specifying the information that must be reported, the bill could lead to better resource allocation and improved outcomes for children in the system. The focus on caseworker experience and required interventions may also highlight the varying complexities of different cases, ensuring that caseworkers are adequately supported in their roles. This legislative change could enhance the overall accountability of child protective services in Texas.
Summary
House Bill 696 aims to amend the Human Resources Code in Texas, specifically focusing on the reporting requirements regarding the caseloads of child protective services (CPS) caseworkers. The bill establishes new standards for measuring and reporting information relevant to cases managed by CPS. It requires a more comprehensive data collection that includes details such as the number of children involved, types of placements, total placements, required levels of care, and the level of intervention necessary for each case. This is designed to ensure that child welfare agencies have a clearer understanding of their workloads and the needs of the children they serve.
Contention
While the bill appears to have broad support for its goals of improving reporting and outcomes within child protective services, the implementation of these new standards could raise concerns related to agency workloads and data privacy. Stakeholders may debate the feasibility of accurately tracking and reporting such extensive information, as well as the potential ramifications for caseworkers who may be held to stricter performance measures. Ensuring that the data collection does not interfere with caseworkers’ primary function of family engagement is crucial in the discussions surrounding this legislation.
Relating to employee caseload limit goals for child and adult protective services and child-care licensing services and call processing goals for certain of those services.
Relating to the Department of Family and Protective Services' annual report of key performance measures and data elements for child protection; authorizing a penalty.
Relating to the Department of Family and Protective Services' annual report of key performance measures and data elements for child protection; authorizing a penalty.
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 a supply of luggage by the Department of Family and Protective Services for the transport of the personal belongings of a foster child.
Relating to policies and procedures regarding children placed by the Department of Family and Protective Services in a residential treatment center or program.
Relating to required reporting by the Department of Family and Protective Services regarding youth in the managing conservatorship of the department who attempt suicide.